Jan-11-Digital

January 2011

The BIG

Education Guide

Over 55 private schools, enrichment programs & field trips 10 Important

College Financing Tips

The state of Oklahoma schools

Q+A with Superintendent-elect

Janet Barresi

metrofamilymagazine.com

Find out more about how a Catholic School can benefit your child.

Call or Visit a Catholic School Today.

St. Philip Neri

St. James School

PreK - 8th Grade Midwest City, OK stphilipnerischool.com 405.737.4496

PreK - 8th Grade Oklahoma City, OK home.swbell.net/stjames1 405.636.6810

St. Eugene Catholic School

Villa Teresa School

PreK - 8th Grade Oklahoma City, OK steugeneschool.org 405.751.0067

PreK - 4th Grade Oklahoma City, OK villateresaschool.com 405.232.4286

Christ the King School

St. John Nepomuk Catholic School

PreK - 8th Grade Oklahoma City, OK ckschool.com 405.843.3909

Rosary School

PreK3 - 8th Grade Yukon, OK sjnok.org 405.354.2509

National Blue Ribbon School PreK - 8th Grade Oklahoma City, OK rosaryschool.com 405.525.9272

St. Charles Borromeo School

Sacred Heart Catholic School

Bishop John Carroll School

PreK - 8th Grade Oklahoma City, OK sacredheartokc.org 405.634.5673

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton PreK - 8th Grade Edmond, OK stjohn-catholic.org 405.348.5364

PreK - 8th Grade Oklahoma City, OK scbschool.org 405.789.0224 PreK - 8th Grade Oklahoma City, OK www.bjcs.org 405.525.0956

St. Mary’s Catholic School PreK-8th Grade Guthrie, OK stmarysguthrie.eduK12.net 405.282.2071

Mount St. Mary Catholic High School Grades 9 - 12 Oklahoma City, OK mountstmary.org 405.631-8865

Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School Secondary College Preparatory Grades 9 - 12 Oklahoma City, OK bmchs.org 405.842.6638

Holy Trinity Catholic School PreK3 - 8th grade Okarche, OK holytrinityok.org 405.263.4422

r u o y e r i p Let us ins r a e Y w e N e h t n i d l chi registration!* e e r f t e g & w o Enroll n

www.lapetite.com

La Petite Academy速 has been inspiring children for over 40 years. Our high quality early education programs are individually designed for children 6 weeks to 12 years*.

Let us start inspiring your child today.

Call 877-217-9537

to locate a school near you and to schedule a visit. *Programs and hours of operation vary by school. See school for details. Offer is for free registration for new enrollees only. Offer is valid on a space-available basis for all age groups. Offer is not redeemable or refundable for cash. Offer available only to those accounts when full tuition is paid in advance. Limit one coupon per child. One time use. Family must enroll for a minimum of three half-days per week and must not have been previously enrolled at a Learning Care Group school. Learning Care Group is not responsible for and cannot replace or redeem lost, stolen, destroyed or expired coupons. Offer not valid for Learning Care Group associates or their immediate families. Offer valid at participating locations and subject to availability. Offer does not guarantee enrollment. Offer expires March 31, 2011. Code: WE11 FreeReg

LPA WE11 Metro Family 7.25x4.75 ad.indd 1

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10/4/2010 1:58:41 PM

January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

What's Happening at MetroFamily

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CHANGE is our theme for January and all of 2011. Our “metro family” is growing to serve your family even better in the days and months to come. The first thing you may have noticed is the complete re-design of our magazine, inside and out, including our logo. We welcome your input on these changes so feel free to email your idea and thoughts to us at info@ metrofamilymagazine.com.

2

Soon, you’ll get to experience our new website, opening in a browser near you.

Our new site will include all the fun things that you've come to expect as well as a wonderful, searchable directory of categories such as birthday party places, private schools and field trips.

3

We’re starting the new year with new voices. MetroFamily is looking for guest bloggers for our new site.

Already a blogger or have you dreamed of becoming a blogger? Submit a sample entry (300 words or less) to us by January 31 and we’ll start

using some hand-selected ones in February.

Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/guest-blogger to submit your entry.

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We will also soon launch a great new subscription-based service called Mother Lode. This project will offer subscribers the opportunity to buy local family products and services at fantastic discounts. But you must be registered to receive the emails. Go to metrofamilymagazine.com/mfm-mother-lodediscount-program to find out more and sign up.

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Hey sports fans! Don't miss the opportunities to see the OKC Barons in action this month and while there, take photos of your family enjoying the festivities then enter those photos into our MetroFamily OKC Barons Fan of the Game contest. The family submitting the best photo gets four passes to a future game plus other fun perks such as meeting the players. Find out more and upload your photo at metrofamilymagazine.com/barons-familyfan-photo-contest.

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And we always love bringing contests to you so check them all out at metrofamilymagazine.com/contests.

This month, you could win a prize pack of family products valued at over $475 and tickets to Riverdance.

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Next month's theme, Kids and the Arts, explores why creativity and the arts are critical for children—and what you as a parent can do about it. Call today to inquire about how advertising in MetroFamily and through our website and other projects reach the powerful local family market. Ad deadline is January 13, 5pm.

PS: Join our community! Get the best weekend family fun ideas in our weekly E-Update (metrofamilymagazine.com/ subscribe-to-e-update); like us at facebook. com/metrofamily; follow us at twitter.com/ metrofamily; and follow our bloggers at metrofamilymagazine.com/blogs.

13905 N.May Ave. OKC

405-463-6622 nhinja.com

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

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The BIG Education Issue

The big education listing: your guide to local area private schools, field trip venues and enrichment programs for all ages.

16

State Superintendent of Public Instructionelect Janet Barresi answered a few questions for us about her upcoming tenure as the leader of public schools in Oklahoma.

34

It's never too early—or too late— to begin planning how to pay for your child’s higher education. These ten tips will help you cut through the confusion.

January 2011 36 Calendar

Dozens of events and activities for family fun and enrichment

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Dear MetroFamily Editor’s Note

22 Dear Teacher

Advice from education experts: reading, writing and the PTA

18 Exploring Oklahoma

Discover the science of skeletons at the Museum of Osteology, now opens in SE Oklahoma City

26 Family Finances

Financial resolutions for the new year

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Family Shorts

Community news and parenting resources

24 Oklahoma Reads

Reviews of books about education and more

© Matty Symons | Dreamstime.com

46 Photo Gallery

Our readers share photos of their children enjoying educational activities plus meet the OKC Barons MetroFamily Fan of the Game

28 The Alert Parent

Resolving to live in the moment this year

20 Your Healthy Family

Learning about ADHD: what it is, how to manage it and one local mom’s story

Cover Photo: © Jonathan Ross | Dreamstime.com

January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

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Dear MetroFamily readers, Can you believe it? 2011. How is that possible?

It seems like just yesterday I was in high school, meeting my husband, living in Germany, pregnant with my first child… my, how the time flies.

Last year as I sat penning my January 2010 note, the year loomed large ahead of me, full of challenges and potential pitfalls. I was facing my husband’s deployment to Iraq, and couldn’t think much beyond that. But the year pressed on and we managed.

My husband is now home, safe and sound. My son progressed from second to third grade, got glasses and has earned his Tae Kwon Do blue belt. My daughter, after a few challenges, is successfully navigating first grade. We survived ice storms and hail storms. I’ve turned 40, learned to play guitar and continue to do this job that I love.

January also marks our annual education issue, and this year is no different… except it’s completely different as we face changes to our school calendar, the first female Governor with the election of Mary Fallin and a new State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Janet Barresi. We were fortunate enough to ask a few questions of Dr. Barresi that might help us all understand the direction she will take. Public education is an issue we should all regard with concern in light of the low rankings of our state. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed but we can all take charge starting with our own children by encouraging them to follow their interests, exposing them to educational experiences and providing a good foundation for life-long learning. Through our direct support (with organizations such as the PTA), we can work together to change our future.

Speaking of changes, we’re also rolling out big changes in our pages, to improve our product and better engage our readers. We hope you’re as excited as we are.

No matter what challenges or promises 2011 holds for you, we wish the happiest, healthiest and most joyful new year to you and your family.

Cheers!

A year in review: sending daddy to Iraq in January; surviving the hail in May; visiting mom and dad in Wisconsin in August; the kids enjoying a ride at the fair in September.

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P.S. Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/mari to read my blog, “Keeping it Real,” about my personal adventures in the ups and downs of parenting.

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

Info and Questions: 405-601-2081 To submit events to our calendar Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Publisher Sarah L. Taylor Sarah@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Editor Mari M. Farthing Editor@MetroFamilyMagazine.com art Director Mitzi Massie Mitzi@MetroFamilyMagazine.com advertising Sales Athena Delce Dana Price Amy Lou Tuzicka Ads@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty Kathy@MetroFamilyMagazine.com assistant Editor & Calendar Brooke Barnett Brooke@MetroFamilyMagazine.com Special Projects assistant Terri Fields Editorial Intern Julie Dill Contributing Writers Brooke Barnett, Francesca Leto Cole, Helen Colella, Julie Dill, Marge Eberts, Allyn Evans, Shannon Fields, Peggy Gisler, Karen Mitchell, Sue Lynn Sasser, Julie Steed Circulation 35,000 – OKC, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, Yukon Also available as a digital edition at MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information.

We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly

By Inprint Publishing, Inc. 725 NW 11th, Suite 204 • Oklahoma City, OK 73103 Fax: (405) 445-7509 E-mail: Info@MetroFamilyMagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2011, All Rights Reserved.

Volume 14, Number 1

HERITAGE HALL Education for the 21stCentury

Open House Dates Jan 10 Upper School Jan 13 Lower School Jan 24 Middle School

6p.m.

1800 NORTHWEST 122ND STREET OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73120 • 405.749.3002

www.heritagehall.com

St. John’S EpiScopal

School and child dEvElopmEnt program

Open HOuse

Come visit with teachers and staff Thursday, February 3, 2011 at 7pm Infant to 8th Grade

5401 N Brookline, Oklahoma City • Phone (405) 943-8583 • www.stjohnsokc.com

St. John’s is the wiSe choice: worship, instruction, Service and enrichment

January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

7

The Funny Class: Not Your Average Coupons...for School Assembly College?

by Brooke Barnett

by Julie Dill

The Funny Class is a group of skilled school assembly professional “edu-tainers” who know how to inspire young students with exciting and energetic educational programs. The Funny Class combines ventriloquism, comedy magic and stage hypnosis with humor to motivate and educate students on the best ways to achieve and succeed.

Many of us start singing the praises of college to our kids at a very early age. Often I catch myself saying, “When you go to college…” or “You can learn that in college….” We have this vision, a defined goal for our children to be collegebound.

“We’re serious about education even though we are called the Funny Class,” explains member Gary Owen, Oklahoma’s only professional ventriloquist. “Our shows are all interactive and expose kids to art forms they’ve never seen before to address issues such as anti-bullying, anti-drug use and character building.”

Owen is joined by clinical hypnotherapist and former educator Dr. Don White and awardwinning magician and former educator David Thomas, all who have performed nationally and internationally. The programs are designed to use interactive humor to inspire students to practice acceptance, respect, honesty, responsibility, courage and other positive life choices. Among other goals, the Funny Class teaches students about study skills, being respectful of others, how to overcome obstacles and how to set active, positive goals.

“We are enjoying taking our shows to the schools, especially in rural areas,” Owens explains. “Our shows are packed with powerful messages that leave lasting impressions on kids.” For more information on how to bring the Funny Class to your school, call 405-840-2100 or visit thefunnyclass.com.

Question of the Month How do you incorporate creativity into your life?

Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/ fs-giveaway to answer this question and enter your name in our monthly prize package drawing, valued at over $475.

Deadline to enter is Thursday, January 20.

Your comments may also be used in a future issue of MetroFamily Magazine or on our website.

The full contents of the prize package are listed online with the entry form.

A winner will be drawn at random and notified by phone or email. The winner agrees to pick up items from the MetroFamily office, 725 NW 11th, Suite 204, Oklahoma City.

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Try this family activity that will encourage your child to be an active participant in saving for college tuition.

• Have your child take inventory of the products you use in your home.

• Help your child find and clip coupons for products that you use and store the coupons in a small file that you make.

• At the next shopping trip, have your child pull needed coupons from his file, and keep a tally of the total saved during that store visit.

• Create a designated “College Savings” piggy bank or account and save the coupon savings from your shopping trips.

• Keep track of the savings with a ledger designated for that purpose. Children love to see their money grow, and you will be pleasantly surprised how fast coupon savings can add up!

What Are Your Thoughts or Hopes for 2011?

The new year often causes us to reflect on the past twelve months and plan for the next. We asked readers what they hoped for 2011, and the answers were surprising. More than a third of the 287 readers who responded said they hoped to spend more time living in the moment.

Julie B. of Edmond captured what many of us are thinking with her response: “I want to stop what I'm doing and look at what new creation my son has built with his LEGOs that he is so proud of... listen to my daughter, because as a 6th grader, EVERYTHING is crucial and important... look my husband in the eyes, really listen to what he is saying, tell him how much I love him and take the extra second in the morning to kiss him good-bye. And of course, I am going to eat that chocolate cake! Life is too short!”

36%

6% 5% 16%

18% 12% 4% ■ 19 Other ■ 15 To eat a more balanced diet, including a variety of healthy foods ■ 46 To get in shape or increase exercise and physical activities ■ 52 To get out of debt or gain control over family finances ■ 14 To lean a new skill, pursue a hobby or follow an interest ■ 36 To set goals as an individual, parent and family for the coming year ■ 105 To spend more time with friends and family, living "in the moment."

287 Entries

Other popular thoughts include getting in shape, gaining financial control and working together as a family to set goals.

Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/january-2011 to be inspired by all of the responses from our readers.

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

Problem-Solvers When we hear about new or helpful products, we like to let our readers know!

Here are a few of the interesting items we’ve recently found. Visit the product website for a list of local retailers.

Problem:

You don’t want to put your nice handbag on that dirty floor.

Solution:

Clipa ($20+) is a bracelet that doubles as a durable purse hanger that can handle up to 45lbs. (clipa.us)

Problem:

Ironically, it’s too dark to find the light switch.

Solution:

Find a Light ($5) glow in the dark accents attach to your existing switchplates to aid you in shedding a bit of light on your problem. (patbayreflective.com)

Problem:

She went to school with two mittens but came home with one.

Character Corner: Wisdom Having wisdom means that you can look at present situations and see the possible connection to future consequences and rewards. A wise person can see the benefits and the dangers in various courses of action and is able to select the successful path while avoiding potential problems and pitfalls that may hinder those with less wisdom.

To promote wisdom in your home: • Seek the counsel of your family members to avoid rash decision-making.

• Maintain a wise and understanding group of friends that reinforce your path of wisdom.

• Discuss and follow the examples of other wise people.

Encourage wisdom in your home by committing to the following statements. Say these “I will” statements aloud with your children, and encourage them to apply them to situations in their everyday life.

It is not enough to acquire wisdom, it is necessary to employ it.

I will: ... listen to my parents and teachers. ... learn from correction. ~ Cicero ... choose my friends carefully. ... remember there are consequences to all my actions. ... ask, “What is the right thing to do?”

Contact Character First! for more character-building resources. To learn more, call 405-815-0001 or visit characterfirst.com.

Solution:

Kula Klips ($10) has cute mitten clips that will keep those errant gloves and mittens in place. (kulaklips.com)

Problem:

Harsh winter weather is wreaking havoc on sensitive skin.

Solution:

Emily Baby & Adult Skin Soother ($14) calms everything from diaper rash to eczema, even on the most sensitive skin. (emilyskinsoothers.com)

Problem:

Quality Child Care at OCCC

by Brooke Barnett

Parents may want to attain a college degree but one of the biggest hurdles is affordable and convenient child care. Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) recognized this and is opening their Child Development Center and Lab School later this month. But the center is not just for the parents. In addition to assisting parents with child care needs while they pursue their college education, the other primary goal of the center is to make a positive impact on children and the greater community. Also, the Lab School facilitates observation opportunities for a number of degree programs on the OCCC campus. All Child Development Center personnel are trained in early childhood education and are required to hold a minimum of a Bachelor degree in early childhood education, elementary education or child development.

You’d drink more tap water if your bottle had a filter.

The Child Development Center operates a full time child care program open to OCCC staff, students and the public. The program is available from 7:00am-5:45pm MondayFriday for children ages six weeks through kindergarten.

Hydros bottles ($30) are reusable, filtered water bottles that will help you to reach your hydration goal. (hydrosbottle.com)

For students requiring more flexibility, a Student Scheduled Child Care Program is available while attending classes at OCCC. Much like enrolling in a college class, students make a semester-long reservation for each of their children. The reservation guarantees placement for the child while they are in class. Student Scheduled Child Care is available for reasonable fees from 7:30am-10:30pm, Monday-Friday.

Solution:

Problem:

Your child struggles with expressing feelings.

Call 405-682–7561 or visit occc.edu to learn more about this and other programs at OCCC.

Solution:

Kimochis ($25) characters come with feelings that can be used to help your child connect to their emotions. (kimochis.com) January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

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Bring Veggies to the Table We all know we need to eat our vegetables, but be wary of questionable sources. There is a new wave of processed food companies touting the vegetable content of their canned foods, but Iva Young, author of Healthy Mom (ivayoung.com), urges consumers to be cautious.

“It’s a tricky definition of terms,” said Young. “It’s really not as healthy to eat processed foods to begin with, but for them to say that using vegetables as fillers somehow makes processed foods healthy is disingenuous, at best.

It’s like saying ‘don’t pay attention to all the chemicals, dyes and sodium we put in the can—there’s vegetables in there, too, so that makes it all okay!’”

Young believes that we need to eat actual vegetables if we want to have a real healthy diet. The five key veggies that top her list as the healthiest: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Spinach. Popeye was right. Spinach is an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals. It’s also a good source of fiber, omega 3 fatty acids and anti-oxidants.

Lettuce (greenleaf, red leaf, romaine). A low-calorie fiber-filled food that is also a great place to find lactucarium, which helps enhance calmness and pain relief. Lettuce also contains a good amount of anticancer properties.

Broccoli. Find copious amounts of vitamins A and C, plus calcium, potassium, iron and folate. A great source of fiber, broccoli also provides lots of bioflavonoids, which is an antioxidant that helps protect against cancer and heart disease.

Brussels sprouts. A great anti-cancer vegetable, sprouts also contain lots of potassium, vitamins A and C and beta carotene. It’s also another great anti-cancer vegetable.

Cabbage. A great low calorie food that contains a good amount of fiber, calcium and vitamin C. Cabbage is incredibly packed with substantial anti-cancer agents.

When picking vegetables, Young believes that fresh and frozen vegetables are better than canned vegetables, because they have less added salt. If you have to buy canned vegetables, she recommends draining the water they are packed in before preparing them to remove a good amount of the added sodium, or simply buy those veggies labeled as having low sodium.

Kids & Smoking With the availability of information or the dangers of smoking, you would think that kids today would avoid it completely—but that’s not necessarily the case.

To try to understand why kids smoke, Dr. Michael Popkin (parenting expert and past MetroFamily Parent University speaker) discovered through interviews with regular kids that stress and peer pressure are the top reasons why kids start smoking.

“Stress as a major factor in youth smoking was a new revelation for us,” said Popkin. It was also discovered that peer pressure to smoke is selfinflicted, and not so much a result of the external pressure of friends: today’s teen has more of a self-motivated desire to fit in. To combat this type of pressure, Popkin said, “teaching [kids] how to make their own decisions and feel good about who they are will help them feel less pressure to conform.”

A video of these findings called “Getting Real About Smoking” and other anti-smoking materials may be found online at realparentsrealanswers.com, a youth smoking prevention program.

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

Think Spring!

Yes, we may be knee-deep in winter, but rest assured: springtime is coming. What better way to get prepared then at the 29th Annual Oklahoma City Home & Garden Show?

“One of the biggest mistakes people make is not realizing the potential of their property. They also don’t realize how easy it is to do something like paint a room to give it a new look,” said John Gidding of HGTV’s “Curb Appeal.” Gidding will share his tips for improving your home inside and out and will answer audience questions during his presentation at the OKC Home & Garden Show.

Held in five buildings at Oklahoma State Fair Park from January 21-23, this year’s show will feature over 500 exhibitors, including Gidding, Andrew Downward (of HGTV’s “Divine Design”), an Oklahoma Beef Cook-Off and many other great demonstrations and ideas to get you ready to think spring.

The show will be open Friday noon-9:00pm, Saturday 10:00am-9:00pm, Sunday 10:00am-6:00pm. Tickets, $11 adults (children under 12 are free) may be purchased at the show’s website for a $3 discount.

To learn more, call 1-800-466-7469, extension 120 or visit oklahomacityhomeshow.com.

FAI Juried Art Show

By Brooke Barnett

Young artists (grades 1-12) are invited to enter the 2011 Youth Impressions Juried Art Show, presented by the Fine Arts Institute (FAI) of Edmond. Sponsored by the Oklahoma Arts Council and the Kirkpatrick Family Fund, the show will run from January 15-28 from 8:00am-7:00pm at the Downtown Community Center, (28 East Main in Edmond).

The juried show provides an incentive for students to be recognized for their artistic talents. Students whose art is accepted to the show are eligible to win cash prizes by being selected for Awards of Excellence or Special Recognition Awards, sponsored by local businesses and individuals.

“In the same manner that musicians, dancers and drama students have numerous opportunities to display their talent through recitals, plays and competitions, visual art students also need a vehicle through which they can share their works,” says Mitzi Hancuff, FAI Executive Director. “The Youth Impressions show does just that.”

Each student may enter up to two works (in pencil, ink, oil pastels, soft pastels, watercolor, acrylic, oil, print media, photography (digital and traditional), mixed media, pottery, sculpture & fiberwork ), entry forms must be submitted by Wednesday, January 12 at 5:00pm. Entry fees are $3 for one or $5 for two entries; for entry forms and additional information, call 405-3404481 or visit edmondfinearts.com.

Empower Your Child This Winter!

Whether your infant, preschooler or school-ager* is delighted with dancing or marvelous at math, Childtime® encourages them to learn through their own curiosity and sense of wonder. The Empowered Child™ curriculum gives children the guidance and freedom to learn in ways meaningful to them. Highly trained teachers encourage kids’ natural curiosity in a safe homelike environment.

This winter, empower your child at Childtime!

Call 877.217.9532

to locate a school near you and to schedule a visit.

www.childtime.com

Enroll Now and Get

FREE REGISTRATION!*

*Programs and hours of operations vary by school. See school for details. Offer is for free registration for new enrollees only. Offer is valid on a space-available basis for all age groups. Offer is not redeemable or refundable for cash. Offer available only to those accounts when full tuition is paid in advance. Limit one coupon per child. One time use. Family must enroll for a minimum of three half-days per week and must not have been previously enrolled at a Learning Care Group school. Learning Care Group is not responsible for and cannot replace or redeem lost, stolen, destroyed or expired coupons. Offer not valid for Learning Care Group associates or their immediate families. Offer valid at participating locations and subject to availability. Offer does not guarantee enrollment. Offer expires March 31, 2011. Code:WE11 FreeReg

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www.kumon.com January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

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A Retreat for Homeschool Moms Homeschooling mothers seeking support are invited to the Homeschool Mom’s Winter Summit, planned for January 28-29 at Crossings Community Church (14600 N. Portland, OKC).

This two-day event features workshops and sessions that will provide information, encouragement and inspiration.

“Homeschooling is certainly a challenge for every family that enlists in this vocation,” said Laurie Ballweber, Promotion Coordinator for the event. “The difficult and sometimes lonely journey is plagued with uncertainties, multitudes of pressure from

family and friends, countless decisions for each child and their unique learning styles and a lifestyle that can leave a mom drained mentally, physically and spiritually.”

Planned workshop topics include: reflections from home schooling moms, meal planning, integrating religious ideals into your coursework, help for struggling students, college considerations for teens—and so many more. A full listing of scheduled events may be found at the Summit website, homeschoolwintersummit.com.

Registration is $79 before January 14, $89 after, or $99 at the door on the day of the event. This price includes all conference sessions and workshops, the conference packet, a banquet dinner on Friday night and a luncheon on Saturday.

To learn more, contact Laurie at 405-819-5551 or visit homeschoolwintersummit.com.

Free and Unique Date Night Ideas

by Julie Steed

We all know that it’s a lot easier to talk about having a date than it is to actually schedule and take one—especially if you’re trying to stick to a budget, you crave spontaneity or you simply don’t want to leave your kids with a sitter.

Luckily, free and spontaneous opportunities to connect (or reconnect) with your spouse are all around. You simply have to slow down enough to find them. Check out this list to find an idea that works for you! Then go have some fun.

• Go play. Take a look around your own yard. Do you have a fire pit (make s’mores), a hot tub (ahhh, relax), a swing or trampoline (find your inner child)? After the kids are in tucked into bed, step out back and enjoy some adults-only alone time in your very own yard. Then pull out a blanket, cozy up together and take a look up at the night sky.

• Grown-up meal. When was the last time you sat down at your table and enjoyed a relaxing meal? No peas and carrots flying through the air, no kids complaining about the food you prepared, no talk about school and homework. A calm meal shared only with your spouse is no small accomplishment, but it can be done. Put the kids to bed or sit them in front of the television (just this once) and enjoy a meal together. Adult conversation only, please.

• Bedtime snack. Put together a snack tray to share with your spouse in front of the TV or fireplace. It doesn’t need to be complicated; choose wine and cheese, tea and cookies, veggies and dip, chips and salsa, pizza rolls. It doesn’t matter what you eat, as long as you are sharing a moment alone together.

• Rock out. Do your children reign supreme in Rock Band or Guitar Hero? It’s time for mom and dad to get in on the action. Ban the kids, pick up a guitar or some drum sticks and have fun with your spouse. Download or purchase songs that take you back to the early days of your relationship, or jam to childhood favorites. Remember, this activity requires lots of smiles and laughter.

• Big turn off. Often the most effective way to connect is also the easiest. Make the decision to turn off every distracting piece of electronic equipment in the house. You choose what works for you (once a week, one hour a night, all the time). No kids, no television, no cell phones and no computers are allowed. Now that you have each other’s undivided attention, there’s no telling what opportunities might arise.

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

Smart and Fun Parents, it can be difficult to engage our children in learning at nearly every stage of the game. One of the most frequent complaints is that learning isn’t fun.

“Games encourage thoughtful dialogue that can result in many educational benefits through accidental learning,” said Julie Dill, National Board Certified Teacher and regular MetroFamily contributer. The following are games and toys that make learning fun.

• Wonderella Game (wonderellagame. com, $20) a versatile memory game for ages three and up.

• Blinky Bugs kit (chroniclekids.com, $20) hands-on activity will introduce kids eight and up to electronics concepts while they craft a creature.

• Haikubes (chroniclebooks.com, $25) make writing poetry as simple as a roll of the word dice.

• Think Smart! Games (thingsmartgames.com, $20+) for the Nintendo DS or Wii will entertain and challenge both kids and adults with math and word puzzles.

• Scruble (scrublecube.com, $25) a 3-D cube version of your favorite spelling word game, twist the rows and columns for endless spelling challenges.

• Twisterz word games (twisterztoys. com, $13+) consists of twistable tubes to help young kids learn letters, spelling and sentence structure.

• Cookie’s Counting Carnival & Elmo’s A-to-Zoo Adventure (sesamestreetvideogames.com, $30 each) Nintendo DS games engage kids three and up with math and reading using a customized character stylus.

• The Secret Science Team: Assignment 1003 (secretscienceteam. com, $28) challenges kids eight and up to use scientific and deductive skills to solve a whodunit mystery.

• Wild Creations Natural History Museum (wildcreations.com, $8 and up) kits feature hands-on science activities, like growing crystals and tools such as a pocket-sized microscope.

• Potato Chip Science (workman.com, $18) presents science projects in a fun package for kids eight and up.

So the next time your child waves the boredom flag, break out a game that will both entertain and educate them.

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January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

13

Handling Cyberbullies Q: What should I do if my child is being bullied online?

There has been a rash of cyberbullying stories in the news lately, where children (and adults) have been threatened, taunted or teased online. If you find out your child is the victim of a cyberbully, there are steps you can take:

• First, let your child know that if someone is bullying him online, he should come to you first.

• Assess the level of severity and type of bullying. If there are threats of physical harm to your child, their family or friends, it may be appropriate to contact the local police department, especially if the bully is working anonymously.

• If you or your child knows the cyberbully and it is a classmate from school, contact school administration and ask them to approach the bully’s parents.

• Encourage your child to not respond to threats or taunts; engaging a bully directly can escalate the situation. He should also not delete messages from a cyberbully; this evidence can be kept as a record of the malicious behavior.

• Cyberbullying is easier to prevent than to fix, so change any account information and have him turn off the computer and walk away for a while—by walking away, he becomes less accessible to bullying and harassment.

Tips provided by internet safety expert Ryan Moreau of Kiwi Commons (kiwicommons.com).

Finding & Keeping a Great Babysitter

by Francesca Leto Cole

Is babysitting a lost art? Is it possible to find a good babysitter? Why are babysitters always busy? Often, these questions arise not from the lack of a good babysitter, but from not knowing how to treat a good babysitter. If you have ever asked any of these questions, here are five things your babysitter wants you to know: 1.

2.

3.

4.

Answer the money question up-front.

Even if you know the babysitter well, it is important to remember that she is there to do a job. Money is always an awkward subject, but if you’re up-front about it, it will no longer be an issue.

Be brief. Don’t stay for an hour to make sure that your sitter feels comfortable; I can safely say from experience that there is nothing you could do to make her feel more uncomfortable. Give your sitter all of your information and tell her who to call in an emergency, but leave within 20 minutes of her arrival.

Be clear about expectations. Your babysitter will appreciate knowing exactly what you want her to do. Expecting her to clean up messes made while she is there is a given; however, beyond that, give her options. If you would like her to load the dishwasher, let her know you’re willing to pay a bit more.

Tell your child that the babysitter is the boss. Before you leave, or even before the babysitter arrives at your house, be sure that your child understands that when you leave, the babysitter is in charge while you are gone.

5. Go out, don’t worry—and have fun. There is nothing worse than an overprotective parent who calls every couple of minutes; or worse, a parent who stays the whole time to make sure that the child and the sitter get along well.

If you are having a hard time finding a good babysitter, try these tips, and see if good babysitters aren’t suddenly much more available when you need them.

OKC to Host U.S. Lightweight National Team

by Brooke Barnett

The Oklahoma City High Performance Center, located on the Oklahoma River, was created in October of 2008 as a partnership between the Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation, Oklahoma City University and USRowing, a nonprofit organization that serves as the governing body for the sport of rowing in the United States. It provides a coeducational year-round residency program for athletes that includes subsidized housing, training, job mentoring, basic medical coverage, tuition waivers and individual race sponsorship support to the athletes pursuing Olympic aspirations in rowing. The Oklahoma River is both a U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site.

The Center is headquartered in the newly-opened Devon Boathouse, a $10 million facility offering the world’s first dynamic rowing tank, a high-altitude training chamber, extensive strength and conditioning

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

facilities and state-of-the-art technology. It incorporates all aspects of elite-athlete sport performance with an emphasis on biomechanics, training methodology, strength and conditioning, physiology, video analysis, sports medicine, nutrition and psychology.

With the 2012 Olympics just around the corner, the Center will host all U.S. Lightweight National team operations; a move that Sherry Andrusiak, Public Relations Specialist for Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation says is a significant development in Oklahoma City’s role both with USRowing and with the 2012 Olympic movement.

“While many lightweights have already relocated to Oklahoma City in 2010, the move will consolidate operations and bring all of the top athletes together in one location,” says head coach John Parker.

“USRowing's goal with this move is to provide the best training opportunities and the best opportunity for success.”

In addition to serving as home to the lightweight national rowing team, the Center will continue to serve as a development location for all athletes with national team aspirations, including heavyweight men, open weight women and adaptive athletes. For more information, visit usrowing.org.

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January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

15

A Different Direction‌ with Superintendent-Elect

I

Janet Barresi

t would be safe to say that Superintendent Elect Janet Barresi has her work cut out for her. A former speech pathologist, then dentist for 24 years, it was her role as a mother that led her to a passion for education. Even then, she was convinced that Oklahoma schools could do better, and she took action, taking an instrumental role in establishing Oklahoma’s first charter school, Independence Charter Middle School.

Head to head with new challenges in what many consider an educational crisis, she is keeping her eye on the prize: the success of Oklahoma students.

In a recent interview, the Superintendent-elect described our current state of educational concern and her vision for Oklahoma education.

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Q: A:

What can we be proud of as far as Oklahoma education is concerned?

Q: A:

Our state is leading the country in early child programs.

Having just returned from a national educational summit in Washington D.C., Oklahoma is receiving kudos for the quality of our early childhood programs.

What do you see as our number one top concern/problem in Oklahoma schools?

Q:

The most immediate concern is assuring that we get dollar bills into the classroom as soon as possible. I have called for a financial audit so we can really take a look at the way our money is being spent in education. We need to rethink how we are spending dollars and create a new normal.

I think we also need to ask ourselves if the money is really benefiting our children. We need to be fiscally responsible and it needs to be restructured.

It seems that immense testing performance pressure is put on Oklahoma school children, even at a young age. Do you feel this will ever have a negative impact?

A: Q:

If we don’t reform, it will. Our current testing is comparing Oklahoma students with Oklahoma students.

We need to move to a national test. We also need to prepare our children for life demands across the world.

Currently we are testing memory. We need to assess a student’s thinking skills as well. Creativity skills are important.

Public perception seems to be that the state lottery would be the answer to state education budget shortfalls. Why hasn’t the lottery help to “fix” our education budget?

A:

The problem with the lottery is that it has never met revenue projection. Also, it is distributed on a month-tomonth basis. It’s not a consistent number.

Q: A:

You are working towards performance pay for teachers.

What would be your ideal evaluation system?

Q:

There are some great models across the country. For instance, we are watching Tulsa closely. The evaluation would be very balanced, including test scores (growth model), professional development and other components.

Again, it would be a very balanced evaluation.

So many times school counselors are stuck with secretarial work, testing duties, and administrative duties. What do you feel is a school counselor’s role?

A: Q:

We need to rethink this. A school counselor needs to be there to guide the kids and be a true school counselor.

Do you plan to initiate more interest in charter schools, and do you feel that’s beneficial to the child as an individual learner?

A:

It is not my desire to spread charter schools across Oklahoma. We need to learn from the success of charter schools and take a close look at what is working. Each district needs a stronger voice. We need accountability and a strong focus on students. We have learned from charter schools that competition is a key component in assuring success.

As stated during her campaign, the Superintendent-elect feels strongly that we must teach kids how to think, not what to think. She supports local control and feels it is crucial we reduce government mandates that create too much bureaucracy and wasteful spending.

Dr. Barresi is eager to go to work for our state’s most precious commodity, our children.

Julie Dill is a mother of two, a National Board Certified Teacher and freelance writer.

according to Barresi, some of the issues she will take on during her tenure as the State Superintendent of Public Instruction include: • We must be honest about the problems we have—the high drop-out rate and remedial education needed in college prove that our current system is not working. It is time for fundamental reform and common sense solutions to prepare our kids for the demands of the 21st century.

• My focus will be on teaching and learning with an emphasis on the basics: reading, writing and math, particularly at the elementary level.

• I oppose the forced consolidation of schools districts. Forced consolidation has never led to improved academic results.

• I support the expansion of parental involvement and choice in their children’s education, and I will protect the right of those who choose to home school.

• I want to empower teachers by giving them the resources they need to be successful. Our test scores will rise as a byproduct of effective teaching.

• I encourage alternative certification for those with expertise in advanced mathematics and science so we can better prepare students for the next generation of high-paying jobs.

• I will promote legal reform to enable school districts to get rid of poor performing teachers. Currently, the potential legal fees make it economically unfeasible to fire bad teachers.

• I want to build on our successful CareerTech system to encourage more Oklahomans to get specialized training and facilitate learning for students who learn though a more hands-on method.

source: janetbarresi.com

January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

17

Exploring Oklahoma Museum of Osteology a One-of-A-Kind Treasure

D

o you have a child so fascinated with a hobby that you fear that it’s taking focus from other “more important” priorities? Jay Villemarette would tell you not to worry. In fact, he’d tell you to encourage your child, even if that interest seems a bit eccentric. And as the Director of the new Museum of Osteology, he knows what he’s talking about.

Skulls Unlimited Museum of Osteology

The Museum of Osteology is located at 10301 S Sunnylane Road, just south of I-240 and adjacent to Skulls Unlimited.

Museum hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm; Saturday, 11:00am-4:00pm Admission $5 per person; children under three are free with paid adult admission To learn more, call 405-814-0006 or visit musuemofosteology.org

From Odd Hobby to Career

“I found a dog skull in the woods at age seven and I’ve been collecting bones ever since,” says Villemarette. That fascination for osteology, the anatomical study of bones, was encouraged by his father who saw his son’s scientific interest in the dog skull. That encouragement and support from his father led Villemarette to a business venture that is 24 years in the making and still growing.

The new 7,000 square foot facility, located in southeast Oklahoma City, houses the hundreds of bone and skeletons that Villemarette has collected from all corners of the world.

With a mission to provide “quality educational opportunities for school groups and the public to explore the form and function of the skeletal system,” the museum opened October 1, 2010. Most frequent visitors have included homeschool children groups and a few schools using the museum’s collection as part of their science studies.

An Educational Destination

As Joey Williams, Director of Education for the museum, explains, “We wanted the

exhibits to be as educational as possible.”

This is evident from the thought and detail put into the displays.

Upon entering the museum, you immediately sense you are in for a unique and educational experience, just as you would at any of the most famous nationally-recognized natural history museums. The two-story, open-area museum begins with exhibits that start on the right and continue around the space, counter-clockwise. As Williams explains, this is because when people walk into a room, the natural tendency is for people to start exploring from the right.

The first exhibit answers the basic question, “What is a skeleton?” The exhibits then continue with displays on adaptation, locomotion, classification and diversity of the vertebrate kingdom.

“I always wanted to be an educator,” says Villemarette. Fortunately, his hobby turned into a career and a way to fulfill his desire to educate. “I have a collector’s gene. I have an obsession to have a complete collection. I have an obsession to learn.”

That obsession evolved into Villemarette’s

family-run business which is made up of two entities.

Before the Museum Began...

Skulls Unlimited is the bone-cleaning business that served as the forerunner to the museum. Josh Villemarette, Jay’s son, explains that most of Skulls Unlimited’s customers are hunters (who bring specimens in for cleaning and articulation) and colleges (who purchase specimens for educational purposes). While there are people who are in the business of cleaning bones, Jay Villemarette says that their company is the only of its kind to include an educational, museum component.

An effective process of cleaning tissue from bone is one that was learned through trial and error, says Jay, whose father worked with him on various methods before settling on the preferred method currently used. The business was even recently featured on the popular Discovery channel television series, Dirty Jobs.

Dirty Jobs host, Mike Rowe, participated in cleaning tissue from the bones of one of the museum’s prize displays, the 2,400-pound skeleton of a 40-foot long humpback whale that hangs from the ceiling. According to Jay, the specimen is “considered the most complete humpback whale specimen in North America; every single bone is original.”

The carcass of this whale washed up on a Massachusetts beach and Skulls Unlimited was contacted to help with its removal. This is typical of how Villamarette comes to possess much of his collection.

The lesson from the museum and its founder?, Encourage your child’s hobbies and explore their interests with them. A career just may be in her future.

Karen Mitchell, a lifelong resident of the Oklahoma City metro area, lives in Edmond with her husband, Mark, teenage son, Ryan, and one spoiled Welsh Corgi. Daughter, Megan, attends OSU in Stillwater.

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

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January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

19

Your Healthy Family Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

A

mericans are blessed to live in a country where education is the rule rather than the exception. Education in America takes many forms, but the end goal is the same, whether it takes place in a public school, at home, or in a private school setting.

However, for a distinct percentage of schoolaged children who suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), that education can seem rather elusive. Since the 1970s, ADHD has been the most commonly studied and diagnosed psychological condition in children, but it is not without controversy. In fact, there are some who question its very existence, while still others question the way it is diagnosed and treated.

Opinions aside, ADHD has altered the landscape of education in America, with as many as 14 percent of school-aged children having been diagnosed in some areas of the country.

ADHD: Past and Present

ADHD didn’t officially exist before 1980, when it was first included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

It is a developmental disorder, characterized by the coexistence of hyperactivity, low attention span, and poor impulse control, with the onset of symptoms generally occurring before age seven. It wasn’t until 1998 that the American Medical Association concluded that the diagnostic criterion was based on enough research to be considered reliable. Today, ADHD is widely accepted as a legitimate disorder, but lingering debates center on how it is diagnosed and treated. ADHD has been divided into three subtypes: Predominately hyperactive-impulsive, predominately

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inattentive, and combined hyperactiveimpulsive and inattentive.

Symptoms of the predominately inattentive subtype include being easily distracted, missing details, difficulty focusing, poor listening, daydreaming, and struggling to follow instructions and process information. Symptoms of the hyperactiveimpulsive subtype may include fidgeting and difficulty staying seated, excessive talking, difficulty completing quiet tasks and activities, impatience, inability to restrain emotions, and difficulty waiting for things. A combination of symptoms from these two subtypes makes up the third subtype, combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive ADHD. To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms have to be observed in two or more settings and persist for at least six months. Symptoms also must significantly affect the child’s schoolwork and relationships.

The exact prevalence of ADHD diagnoses varies among studies. Children in North America tend to have a higher rate of ADHD than those in other regions, and the rate of diagnosis is higher on the east coast than the west. Boys are two to three times more likely than girls to receive a diagnosis of ADHD, but some studies suggest this may be due largely to gender biases in schools. Studies have shown that in the United States, 37 percent of children diagnosed with ADHD do not receive high school diplomas, even if they receive special education services and individualized education plans. While adults are seldom diagnosed with ADHD, approximately 60 percent of children diagnosed go on to have symptoms into adulthood.

ADHD and Education

Anita Walker is a Certified School Psychologist and Licensed Professional Counselor who worked as Director of Counseling for the Oklahoma City Public School System and is now in private practice.

She specializes in children, adolescents and family dynamics. She explains that students

Since the 1970s, ADHD has been the most commonly studied and diagnosed psychological condition in children.

diagnosed with ADHD may have poor self-esteem and give up easily. “They may experience more social problems with their peers, as they are more impulsive and may engage in high-risk behaviors, particularly without treatment.”

That said, Walker feels that with the proper treatment, the prognosis for most children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD is very good. “Many famous adults have ADHD with learning problems, but they are very bright and simply have a different learning style.” She stresses the importance of involving parents, educators and clinicians in ensuring a student’s success. “It’s important to develop strengths, structure their environment and use medication if needed.

Parents need to set realistic limits for safety and stay in close contact with teachers, so they know if missing assignments start to occur. Activities such as sports, drama and debate teams can be great places to channel excess energy and stress and develop friendships.”

Angel’s Story

Angel is an Edmond mom of two, and when her daughter (now age 12) began to struggle in school, she recognized the signs, because she had been there herself. “Growing up, my mother and I knew that I didn’t learn the same as other kids. I’d sit in class in seventh grade knowing I could read, knowing that I was smart, but reading was difficult,

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• Hyperactive-impulsive: may include fidgeting and difficulty staying seated, excessive talking, difficulty completing quiet tasks and activities, impatience, inability to restrain emotions, and difficulty waiting for things.

• Inattentive: easily distracted, missing details, difficulty focusing, poor listening, daydreaming, and struggling to follow instructions and process information.

• Combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive: includes a combination of symptoms of both subtypes.

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

Dance classes for all ages! especially aloud. I was tested for dyslexia, but that checked out fine. The school said I just wasn’t applying myself, and I had terrible anxiety and low self-esteem.” Angel barely got by in school in the years before ADHD was well-known and accepted in public schools. When she recognized the same struggles in her own daughter, she asked for her to be tested. “They told me in first grade that she couldn’t be tested until second or third grade for a learning 'disability.' We don’t think of it that way, rather, we know she learns differently.”

Angel’s daughter eventually underwent testing and was diagnosed with ADHD. It didn’t take Angel long to decide to make some changes to her educational plan, too.

“Public school for her was like trying to load a floppy disk in a flash drive slot.” As a stayat-home mom, Angel made the decision to homeschool. “Now, as her teacher, I focus on her gifts and strengths. I want her to feel empowered and confident. If she is confident in her abilities, she can learn anything and do anything.”

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Walker concurs. “Parents and teachers should never give up on these special students and children, because they are struggling to understand themselves and how to succeed in life. Parents who show encouragement and understanding will be able to help their kids get past these struggles and become successful.

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21

Dear Teacher Q&A with the Experts Cursive Writing Is Disappearing: Does It Matter?

My 11-year-old daughter cannot read a handwritten note unless it is printed.

She struggles with all of the myriad notes of day-to-day living that are NOT done on the computer or through text-messaging. She has no signature because she hasn’t learned to write her name in cursive.

Cursive handwriting is not taught at her school because it is believed that it would be a waste of time since all papers after sixth grade are done on the computer. She learned basic keyboarding in third grade and will have more intensive training in sixth grade. Does it make any sense for computers to replace handwriting in schools?

— The Lost Skill Answer: Your daughter definitely is not alone in her inability to write cursive. On the first SAT essay test given in 2006, only 15 percent of the students used cursive, the rest printed their essays. Whether it makes sense or not, cursive handwriting instruction has disappeared from many schools. And when it is taught, less and less time is devoted to this subject. Typically, cursive handwriting

Support Your Local ParentTeacher Association

Being members of a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) makes parents a part of the oldest and largest organization that advocates for all children.

All parent/staff organizations set out to support the staff, students and programs of the school. They fund raise, educate and offer support in a variety of ways.

As a member of a PTA, you will not only support your own child’s school but also reach out state-wide and nationally for all children.

Another great benefit to being an active member of the PTA is getting to know the parents of many children in your child’s school and your school administrators. Plus, you get a bird’seye view of what is happening at the school. Finally, there is no question that the collective voice of the members of this organization has more influence than that of one parent.

is introduced in second or third grade. If students do not master cursive by the end of third grade, they will usually receive little instruction in it in fourth grade and beyond.

The students who do not master cursive will go back to printing as their form of written communication.

The attention to penmanship in the schools began to diminish almost 50 years ago when teachers began to question the need

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

for all students to follow a set standard in their handwriting. Today, it continues to lose ground to other subjects that are being emphasized so students will do well on standardized tests. Plus, there is the simple fact that many teachers do not consider it an important subject.

In a practical vein, your daughter needs to do some things to overcome her inability to write or read cursive. Teach her to write her name in cursive, as this is still a requirement on many documents. Also, because there are still situations in which fast handwriting is essential, have her learn to print without raising her pencil between each letter, whenever possible. We would also suggest that you read cursive lists and notes together until she begins to pick up this skill.

Without it, she is going to have a gap in her communication skills.

Problems with Silent Reading Twenty minutes of my son’s thirdgrade reading time is spent having the students read silently. Even the teacher reads during this time.

Wouldn’t some instruction from the teacher during this time be a more appropriate way to improve his reading?

— Unhappy Answer: What you have described is called Sustained Silent Reading (SSR). And you are right about your son needing some input from the teacher. Much of the criticism of the effectiveness of SSR is the lack of teacherstudent interaction. Teachers should talk with students individually about what they are reading and make sure they can easily read the material. Plus, it’s important that teachers listen to the students read passages and give them feedback on their reading skills.

When teachers interact with the students, the students are far more likely to make better use of this silent-reading time.

Dear Teacher is written by Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts. Do you have a question? Send it to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or visit DearTeacher.com.

Reading is the basis for learning.

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January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

23

Oklahoma Reads Great Reads for Everyone Books for Early Readers Funny Bone Readers by various authors & illustrators (Red Chair Press, softcover, $24/pack of 6) A series of books that teach important reading skills while also teaching lessons in character.

Themes include fairness, respect, trustworthiness, responsibility, caring and citizenship.

Punk Farm & Punk Farm On Tour

by Jarrett J. Krosoczka (Random House, hardcover, $16 each) When the farmer turns out the lights for the night, do the animals go to sleep as well? Not in this author’s version of a farm, where Cow, Pig, Sheep and Goat take to the stage—and then take it on the road.

Now I’m Reading Games: Word Dominoes

by Nora Gaydos, illustrated by Veronica Rooney (Innovative Kids, softcover book & domino cards, $10.95) An interactive reading activity featuring a storybook and letter cards that may be used to reinforce early reading skills.

Come learn about the Land Run of 1889, Oklahoma Territory, and Statehood for Oklahoma. We offer living history programs, interactive lectures, games, and tours for all ages. Call or email us for prices and reservations.

406 E Oklahoma Ave., Guthrie

405-282-1889

Stepping Stones Together Online Reading Program

For ages 3-7 (steppingstonestogether.com; subscriptions, $19.99 and up)

This personalized online reading program is designed to build your child's early reading skills. With a membership, you may download books that are selected based on your child’s educational level, reading goals and basic interests.Then, using the books you’ve printed, you can “step through” the books with your child—first by making predictions, then by using pictures as a guide and ultimately reading the text. A fun, interactive and unique approach to reading and made to be accomplished in about 20 minutes a day.

My Uncle Martin’s Big Heart

by Angela Farris Watkins, PhD, illustrated by Eric Velasquez (Abrams Books for Young Readers, hardcover, $19)

Tutor in a Book

by Alexandra Mayzler & Ana McGann (Adams Media, softcover, $15)

The adult niece of Martin Luther King Jr. introduces him to others in this profile of her uncle from her perspective as a child. A moving and powerful view of a moving and powerful voice in American history.

A title to assist your children in excelling in the three skills most needed for school success: organization, time management and study skills. Includes an interactive tutoring program with worksheets and case studies to address common problem areas.

Grades 3 and up

The Five Minute Moms Club: 105 Tips to Make a Mom’s Life Easier

by Stephanie Vozza (Franklin Green Publishing, softcover, $13)

Native American History for Kids

by Karen Bush Gibson (Chicago Review Press, softcover, $17) Information and activities about North America’s earliest residents.

Discusses the various cultures and histories of Indian tribes while highlighting their contributions to modern society. Includes photos, drawings and activities.

Another Whole Nother Story

by Dr. Cuthbert Soup (Bloomsbury USA, hardcover, $17) The creative tale of a man, three (relatively odor-free) children, a super-secret time machine, and their adventures back in time and around the world.

guthriecomplex@okhistory.org

24

For Parents

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

Ever find yourself picking up a parenting book only to put it back down because you’re convinced you don’t have time to read it? This title encourages you to read a little at a time—a pocket-sized tome with bitesized tips that will provide fullsized impact.

The Call to Brilliance

by Resa Steindel Brown (Fredric Press, softcover, $18) A powerful non-fiction book that reads like a novel and will cause you to rethink your ideas about how children learn and what constitutes success in school. How can we feed our children’s minds while encouraging their natural gifts? This is a title for both parents and educators to consider.

Reviews by MetroFamily Magazine editor Mari Farthing.

Enroll Now! Providing Children with the Best Start Possible since 1977

KING’S GATE Christian School Age 3 through 3rd Grade

• Great certified teacher-child ratio • Hands-on Learning • Before & After School Programs • Age appropriate activities • Science, Art, Music, Spanish and P.E. programs • Generous space & resources

405.752.2111 Located on Hefner Point

www.kingsgateschool.com Kick Up Your Heels January 8 • Yarn Doll for Boys & Girls Before Cabbage Patch Kids or American Girl dolls there were yarn dolls. Create a traditional hand-crafted toy for both boys and girls.

February 5 • Rhythmically Speaking Rhythmically Speaking presents the story of Bass Reeves, one of the first black lawmen of the West and most respected lawman working in Indian Territory.

Performances at 10:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.

March 5 • Mural Art

A mural is a large piece of artwork usually painted directly on a wall or another large permanent surface.

Join in coloring a mural for the Museum’s Education Classrooms.

Saturdays for Kids education programs, designed for ages 4 to 12, are free to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Call for information, Ext. 264

1700 NE 63rd Street Oklahoma City, OK • (405) 478-2250

www.nationalcowboymuseum.org

Primrose School of Edmond 15000 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73013

405.285.6787

www.primroseedmond.com

Trusted L eadership.

Proprietary Balanced Learning® curriculum n

Educational accreditatio

Each Primrose School is privately owned and operated. Primrose Schools, Balanced Learning, and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2010 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.

Family Finances Financial Resolutions

R

esearch shows that about half of all adults in the United States make New Year’s resolutions. Some of the most common include weight loss, smoking cessation, increased exercise and debt reduction.

The practice of making resolutions dates back to the Babylonians, who believed that what a person does on the first day of the new year affects what they do throughout the coming year.

Statistics and resolutions, however, will not make you wealthy or successful. To improve your family’s financial health, start the new year with a different perspective on money management practices that will help you reach your financial goals.

1.

Have a spending plan. Whether you call it a budget or something else, establishing a plan for spending your income helps determine what is important to you and your family and helps you manage your monthly spending. Most financial experts agree that a budget or spending plan is the most important factor in achieving

Come visit our new office Occupational and Speech Therapy Services Available • Down Syndrome • Autism • ADD and ADHD • Sensory Processing Disorder • Cerebral Palsy • Typical children with handwriting problems

For more information visit SensationalKidsOKC.com 14715 Bristol Park Blvd.

N.E. Oklahoma City (Edmond border)

405-840-1686

26

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

financial success and meeting financial goals. You may find it easier to develop a family budget if you involve the entire family, so be sure to discuss your spending plans together.

Track spending. Ask all family members to write down every penny spent for at least two weeks. (A full month is better, but challenging.) By doing so, you have a much better idea where your money is going each month.

It may be surprising to learn that your spending patterns don’t match your spending plan, which can quickly derail your financial goals

You may find it easier to develop a family budget if you involve the entire family, so be sure to discuss your spending plans together.

7.

Avoid places that trigger overspending.

Overspending and recreational shopping are two of the biggest problems for most families. Whether it’s a trip to the mall because you’re bored or stopping at the movie concession stand, beware of any place that trips your spending switch.

Write down what you want to buy and why you want to want to buy it. If you still want it 24-48 hours later and you have identified a purpose for your purchase, then it’s probably okay to go ahead with your choice. You may even want to initiate a family conference time to discuss purchases over a specific amount. This idea works really well with children, too.

Pay yourself. Every family needs a savings account (for emergencies) and some type of retirement account. Once those are established, consider special savings accounts for other family goals, such as vacations or holiday purchases.

Paying yourself allows you to meet both short-term and long-term goals and provides a cushion for those unexpected expenses like new tires for your car or new glasses for the kids.

Use credit cards only when necessary.

It can be so easy to use your credit card for fast, cheap purchases, such as fast food; however, those cheap trips can add up quickly to form a big expense. Credit cards should be used for emergencies or major purchases that cost more than you have saved. A good rule of thumb is asking if the product you purchase will last longer than it takes you to pay it off. Unless you already have a pattern of paying credit card bills in full each month, consider leaving them locked up safely at home or tucked in the back of your billfold so they are available only when needed.

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

8.

9.

Use student loans or savings to pay for college expenses, not credit cards.

Financing a college education for you or your children on credit cards is the most expensive payment method. Student loans have much lower interest rates and most do not require repayment until graduation. Also, avoid using retirement funds to pay for education. You can always borrow money to finance education; you cannot borrow money to finance retirement.

Resist peer pressure to spend. Friends and family members often have hundreds of ideas for spending your money. Just because they have a new car or a new coat does not mean you must have one too. Avoid shopping with people who encourage you to buy things you don't really need. Resist the temptation by asking if that purchase will help you achieve your family’s financial goals.

Don’t get discouraged when you make a mistake. No one is perfect and no one makes the right choice every time. You will make mistakes, so don’t spend a lot of time worrying about it. Instead, focus on how to fix the problem and get back on your spending plan as soon as possible. In extreme cases, you may want to find a financial advisor or debt counselor for help.

10. Live smart. Being informed is the key to making good choices. If something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Or, if something doesn’t make sense, follow your instincts.

Researching your purchases or delaying a decision until you have more information will generally pay off.

Sue Lynn Sasser, PhD, is an associate professor of economics at the University of Central Oklahoma.

® Middle and High School Students apply now!

•Oklahoma Science Adventure• A one-week summer program for middle school students •Paleo Expedition• A two-week summer program for high school students

Work with real scientists in fieldwork and research

(405) 325-4712 www.snomnh.ou.edu The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution.

EXPERIENCE OKLAHOMA

through its people

Via high-tech, interactive exhibits, meet the famous and everyday Oklahomans who have impacted our world.

NW 13TH STREET & SHARTEL AVENUE • OKC 405.235.4458 • WWW.OKLAHOMAHERITAGE.COM

The Alert Parent Resolved: To Live in the Moment

N

ew Year’s Resolutions, anyone?

This year I decided on the perfect resolution: to live happily in the moment no matter the circumstances. The resolution was so perfect I had already begun speaking about it in presentations. Living in the moment can be hard to do—think holiday travelers stranded at airports and train stations. Most of us relive the past or pine for a better future. I didn’t even understand the concept until I was in my 40s, and I was going to make sure the new year was going to be the year when I focused on the present.

That is, until my daughter Addy took the dog-sitting job for a friend of mine, which required me to be the designated driver.

“Let’s sit in the hot tub tonight,” Addy said.

The doggy momma friend owns a fancy hot tub, which she had offered to us.

“Good idea!” I said. It was a blustery and cold night. Soaking in the hot tub sounded like fun.

We arrived at 6:30pm, checked on the dog, put our belongings on the kitchen counter and then went outside to the tub. As I was about to step in, I realized I still had the “thank you for my Christmas present” note I had meant to leave inside.

Addy jumped into the hot tub as I headed for the door. I tried to turn the knob, but it didn’t turn. The door was locked. “It’s still 2010,” I yelped at the intractable door. I wasn’t ready to face my new resolution yet, but what choice did I have?

And there I stood in the 28° Oklahoma night. Addy and I were both clad only in our swimming suits, while our shoes, coats and my car keys locked securely in the house.

I did however, have my cell phone. I could have called someone to pick us up, but that would still leave the problem of our belongings—including the keys to my house and car—and would still leave us stranded in lycra.

Thankfully, my friend for whom Addy was dog-sitting, was due in this evening… in a few hours. I tried calling her anyway, but I knew it was in vain. I called my husband who was on his way home from a business trip, but it would be even longer before he could arrive to help.

28

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

Don’t tell my friend, but I thought long and hard about breaking down her door, a solution that appealed to neither of us. We couldn’t think of anyone else to call.

At this point Addy said. “Okay, Mom. Let’s just enjoy the moment.” We had been talking about this lesson for some time now, and in the cold, in the dark, part of me was thrilled to know Addy had been listening to our discussions.

“You’re right, Addy,” I said, trying to set a good example on the outside, while inside, the idea of not knowing how long the hot tub ordeal would last unnerved me.

It was 8:30pm when my friend finally landed and texted me the number of the next-doorneighbor, who thankfully had a spare key.

After a good laugh, she quickly came to our rescue.

As for Addy and me, we had plenty of hot tub time, a good story to share, and the experience of living happily in the moment.

I have to admit I need lots more practice, which makes this 2011 resolution just right for me.

Allyn Evans (thealertparent.com) is a published author, professional speaker and consultant residing in Stillwater.

EXPERIENCE THE ORIGINAL!

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Largest selection of Paper Plate Ensembles, Loot Bags, Balloons, Hats, Prizes and more.

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january 21-23 rose state performing arts theater 1-40 & hudiburg dr., midwest city, ok

Purchase tickets by phone: 405.297.2264 or 800.364.7111 In person: Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N. Walker, OKC Outlets: Buy for Less stores - Online: myticketoffice.com

www.riverdance.com

New Year, New Programs!

People are staying closer to home for family fun and staycations.

Come and join us in your local Edmond parks as we

Recreate Experience and Adventure…

• • • • • • • •

After School Archery Edmond Parks Scavenger Hunt Mother & Son Field Day Play in the Park Chalk It Up for Liberty Fest Krazy Kids Dog Show Rec Fest Pumpkin Palooza

Follow Us On

Or Call 359-4630

January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

29

2011 Education Guide Private School (Preschool-grade 12) Location Address

Contact

Grades Details

Bishop John Carroll School

1100 NW 32nd, OKC

405-525-0956 bjcs.org

PreK-8

Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School

801 NW 50th, OKC

405-842-6638 bmchs.org

9-12

Casady School

Various Metro locations

405-749-3100 casady.org

PreK-12

Childtime Learning Centers

9500 N Pennsylvania Ave, OKC

877-624-2602 childtime.com

Preschool

Christ the King Catholic School

1905 Elmhurst Ave, OKC

405-843-3909 ckschool.com

PreK-8

Heritage Hall

1800 NW 122nd, OKC

Highpointe Church Play School

6810 NW 122nd, OKC

Erna Krouch Preschool

4901 N Pennsylvania Ave, OKC

Co-educational college preparatory Episcopal day school.

Skill Builders Program encourages growth and learning filled with active and fun activities.

Christ-centered elementary education.

Through PreK

Early childhood program for all.

Includes music and beginning Spanish.

405-722-1871 .highpointe.tv

Through PreK

Educational and fun preschool curriculum.

PreK-8

405-749-3002 www.heritagehall.com

405-946-0462 messiahlutheranschool. com

9-12

3600 NW Expressway, OKC

Holy Trinity Catholic School

Holy Trinity Christian School

N. 2nd & Missouri, Okarche

405-263-4422 holytrinityok.org

308 NW 164th St, Edmond 405-844-4000 holytrinityedmond.org

Through grade 5

King’s Gate Christian School

11400 N Portland Ave, OKC

405-752-2111 kingsgateschool.com

PreK-2

La Petite Academy

Various Metro locations

877-861-5078 lapetite.com

Preschool

Messiah Lutheran School

3600 NW Expressway, OKC

PreK-8

Missouri Military Academy

204 North Grand Street, Mexico, Missouri 65265

405-946-0462 messiahlutheranschool. com

PreK-8

Mount St. Mary Catholic High School Oklahoma Christian School

573-581-1776 missourimilitaryacademy. org

6-12

2801 S Shartel, OKC

405-631-8865 mountstmary.org

9-12

4680 East 2nd, Edmond

405-341-2265 ocssaints.org

PreK-12

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

Co-educational college prep Archdiocesan high school with diverse student body.

405-848-5926 tbiekps@coxinet.net

Messiah Lutheran School

30

Diverse Catholic community providing excellence in academic instruction and faith formation in a safe faith-filled environment.

College preparatory school with high academic standards.

Accredited Christian school with small class sizes and qualified, caring teachers.

Catholic school with daily bus route to and from NW OKC.

Christ-centered basic curriculum plus music, Spanish, physical education and computers.

Quality Christian education in a school where accreditation and ageappropriate activities are combined in a spiritually-based environment.

Journey Preschool Program uses a child’s natural curiosity and desire to explore the world to prepare him to enter kindergarten successfully.

Private accredited Christian school with small class sizes and qualified, caring, Christian teachers

All-boy private military boarding school that stresses the time-honored values of honor, integrity, perseverance and duty.

College preparatory, co-educational Catholic education with a variety of clubs, organizations, fine arts and athletics.

Interdenominational school seeking to partner with families to educate the whole person to glorify God.

Private School (Preschool-grade 12) Location Address

Contact

Grades Details

Primrose School of Edmond

15000 N Western Ave, Edmond

405-285-6787 primroseedmond.com

PreK-K

Educational, private pre-school.

405-478-2077 providencehall.org

PreK-8

Rosary School

1910 NW 19th, OKC

PreK-8

Sacred Heart Catholic School

2700 S Shartel Ave, OKC

405-525-9272 rosaryschool.com

The only full-time classical Christian school in the OKC Metro. Upper grades will be added in upcoming yeras. Full and half day programs for PreK & K.

Providence Hall Classical Christian School

1120 E Hefner Rd, OKC

405-634-5673 sacredheartokc.org

PreK-8

405-789-0224 scbschool.org

PreK-8

St. Charles Borromeo School

5000 N Grove, OKC

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School

925 S Boulevard, Edmond

405-348-5364 seascardinals.org

PreK-8

St Eugene Catholic School

2400 W Hefner, OKC

405-751-0067, steugeneschool.org

PreK-8

405-636-6810 stjames-catholic.org

PreK-8

St. James Catholic School 1224 SW 41st, OKC St. John’s Episcopal School and Child Development Program

5401 N Brookline, OKC

405-943-8583 stjohnsokc.com

Through grade 8

St. John Nepomuk Catholic School

600 Garth Brooks Blvd, Yukon

405-354-2509 sjnok.org

PreK-8

St. Mary’s Catholic School

502 E Warner Ave, Guthrie

405-282-2071 stmarysguthrie.eduk12.net

PreK-8

St. Mary’s Episcopal School

505 E Covell Rd, Edmond

405-341-9541 smesedmond.org

PreK-5

St. Philip Neri Catholic School

1121 Felix Pl, Midwest City

405-737-4496 stphilipnerischool.com

PreK-8

Trinity School

321 NW 36th St, OKC

405-525-5600 trinityschoolokc.org

K-12

Villa Teresa Catholic School

1216 Classen Dr, OKC

405-232-4286 villateresaschool.com

PreK-4

Westminster School

600 NW 44th St, OKC

405-524-0631 westminsterschool.org

PreK-8

Blue Ribbon award-winning Catholic school.

Breakfast, lunch, after school care, sports, band and scouting.

Excellent education in a safe environment where students grow in self-discipline and individuality.

Education program rooted in the values of love, respect, and justice for every individual and form of life existing in God's creation.

Keeping Christ central by nurturing spiritual growth and academic excellence in students, families, and the community in the tradition of the Roman Catholic faith.

Focuses on whole child education.

Enrollment begins in March.

Curriculum focuses on Worship, Instruction, Service and Enrichment (WISE).

Catholic school committed to the gospel teachings of Jesus Christ and the principles of the Catholic Church.

Committed to providing the best academic and spiritual formation for all.

Quality academic programs in an environment fostering respect for faith, family, others and self. Adding grades 6-8 in upcoming years.

Educators dedicated to helping students grow in wisdom and knowledge by working in partnership with parent and child.

Private, independent day school for bright students who benefit from a small classroom environment offering multi-sensory, research-based teaching.

Early primary education, year-round programs available.

Independent school educating children through active experiences.

January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

31

2011 Education Guide Field Trips Location

Address

Contact

Details

Chisholm Trail Heritage Center

1000 Chisholm Trail Parkway, Duncan

580-252-6692 onthechisholmtrail.com

Edmond Historical Society & Museum

431 S Boulevard, Edmond

405-340-0078 edmondhistory.org

Exhibits and interactive programs providing information about the art and history of the Chisholm Trail, the American cowboy and the American west.

Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum

1400 Classen Dr, OKC

405-235-4458 oklahomaheritage.com

Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum

1714 W Wrangler, Seminole

405-382-0950 jasminemoran.com

Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center

1100 North Plum Hutchinson, Kansas

800-397-0330 cosmo.org

Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art

1900 W MacArthur St, Shawnee

405-878-5300 mgmoa.org

National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum

1700 NE 63rd, OKC

405-478-2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org

Oklahoma Aquarium

300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks

918-528-1577 okaquarium.org

“A Day in 1889” field trip designed for third and fourth grade students.

Experience Oklahoma’s story through its people in a hightech, interactive museum environment.

Interactive exhibits, outdoor train and ScienceWorks wing (complete with a surgical suite) provide a fun field trip venue.

The most comprehensive space museum in the world features education and camp programs for students of all ages.

Collections featuring 8,000 years of art including ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, African and Native American artifacts.

Provides educational, hands-on programs for grades K-6 that focus on Western culture and meet PASS standards.

Guided tours are available for middle and high school grades. Traveling trunks as well as outreach programs also are available.

Designed to get students excited about marine animals, aquatic science and the environment.

Oklahoma City Museum of Art

415 Couch Dr, OKC

405-236-3100 okcmoa.com

Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Gardens

2101 NE 50th, OKC

405-425-0218 zoofieldtrips.com

Field trips, outreach programs and homeschool classes with animal encounters.

405-424-8222 oklahomarailwaymuseum. org

Museum with historic preservation of historic railroad equipment and train rides. Model train layout, Operation Lifesaver presentation on Highway Railgrade Crossing Safety.

Oklahoma History Center

Oklahoma Railway Museum

800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC

3400 NE Grand Blvd, OKC

405-522-5248 okhistorycenter.org

Oklahoma Territorial Museum

406 E Oklahoma Ave, Guthrie

405-282-1889 okterritorialmuseum.org

Orr Family Farm

Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History

Science Museum Oklahoma

32

14400 S Western, OKC

405-799-3276 orrfamilyfarm.com

2401 Chautauqua Ave, 405-325-4712 Norman snomnh.ou.edu 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC

405-602-3760 sciencemuseumok.org

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

Collections featuring American and European art, a comprehensive collection of Dale Chihuly glass and educational programs for students of all ages.

Guided museum tours, scavenger hunts, living history programs, education trunks and special classes.

Provides a variety of educational programs focusing on early Oklahoma statehood.

Hands on activities, physical activity and farm education all in one venue.

Exhibits highlighting over 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history and the history of Oklahoma. Hands-on exhibits and activities available.

Hands-on science experiences and exhibits featuring space, aviation and cultural artifacts, plus Planetarium and IMAX dome theater.

Educational Outreach & Enrichment Programs Location Address Contact Club Z! In-home Tutoring 3200 E Memorial, Service Suite 600, Edmond

405-478-3515, ClubZTutoring.com

Creative Adventures

10455 N May Ave, OKC

The Funny Class

Edmond

405-751-1002 facebook.com/ creativeadventures

Kumon Math & Reading kumon.com

Edmond (245 S Santa Fe), 405-216-9800 N Edmond (775 W Covell), 405-715-1111 Mustang (204 N Mustang Mall Terrace), 405-376-6400 Norman (1320 N Interstate Dr), 405-364-1600 NW OKC (764 NW Expy), 405-721-7323

L’Alliance Française d’Oklahoma City

405-840-2100 thefunnyclass.com

Details Reading, math, science and history tutoring, study skills, foreign languages, standardized test prep, assessment testing on ACT, SAT, GMAT, GRE and MCAT. For grades PreK-college.

Fine art programs for ages 3-4. Various programs held Tuesday-Friday focus on music, drama and movement.

A variety of “edu-tainers” include a ventriloquist, magician and hypnotist whose programs teach acceptance, respect, responsibility, honesty, ethics and character to grades 1-12.

Beginning and advanced math & reading programs.

Ongoing sessions with individualized academic plans.

PO Box 414 OKC, OK 73101

405-748-0868 afdokc@gmail.com

French language instruction for elementary-age children and older. Classes start in late January.

Oklahoma City Philharmonic

428 W California, Suite 210, OKC

405-232-7575 okcphilharmonic.org

Sensational Kids, Inc.

14715 Bristol Park Blvd, OKC

The OKC Philharmonic and OKC Orchestra League further the community's connection with music through programs such as The Instrument Playground, The Discovery Family Series philharmonic concerts, We've Got Rhythm, Musical Stories, Sound Images, the Society of Strings and Youth Concerts, when 17,000 students enjoy a free Philharmonic concert each year.

Details on their website.

Mad Science

our mmunity!

344 S Santa Fe Ave, Edmond

ribe to E-Update, our popular y email giving you all the ming family events in the area us: Find more education resources online at acebook.com/MetroFamily w us: metrofamilymagazine.com/ dear-teacher witter.com/MetroFamily

405-285-9643 madscience.org/okc

405-840-1686, sensationalkidsokc.com

Fun, interactive science programs and activities at schools, community centers and camps.

Occupational and speech therapists work with children who exhibit Sensory Processing Disorder, speech disorders, and those with delayed fine/gross motor skills and social skills.

oin our J community!

Subscribe to E-Update, our popular weekly email giving you all the upcoming family events in the area Like us: Facebook.com/MetroFamily Follow us: Twitter.com/MetroFamily

January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

33

When the time is right, do you think there will be enough money to send your child to college? No matter how much money you think you have now, there’s always an unforeseen “something” lurking in the distance waiting for the opportunity to disrupt your plans. With that “something” in mind, know that it’s never too early to start planning for your child’s college education.

And think this concept only applies to parents with children in high school? Think again.

Picture this: you’re a young entrepreneur, part of the business world making a great salary. But as with anything, situations change, things happen and you lose your job…savings dwindle as you take time to regroup and reorganize. Suddenly, you find yourself struggling to make ends meet. Time passes much more quickly than you realize, and finances become a serious concern.

You realize that your kindergartner will soon become a middle grade student, counting the days until he’s in high school and becomes an eligible candidate for college. The family discussions begin and you realize that the cost of tuition, school fees and books will increase substantially from what you originally may have expected.

Are You Ready?

It’s important for families to have a fail-safe plan for the future.

When it comes to your child’s education, discuss whether or not your child will have the opportunity to go to college—and whether or not you’ll be financially prepared.

Many parents and children are under the impression that only the super-smart or star athletes have the opportunity to go to college through special scholarships, grants or awards. But, since this type of student is in the minority, it’s safe to say this isn’t totally accurate.

With decent grades, a good attitude and the right resources, your child can also boast of being a college graduate even if there’s a sudden depletion of the family finances.

If you start early and take the time to do the research, you’ll find that there are many sources of money for college. Some tips to keep in mind: 1.

Check with your place of business. Does your company offer financial aid to their employee’s children? Your workplace’s Human Resources office should be on your list.

2. Contact your alma mater. Many colleges provide a special deal for the children of alumni. Some schools also provide a sibling discount, so if you have a child currently attending college, look into the possibility of reduced tuition for little brother or sister.

3.

Association for University Women) frequently offer scholarship opportunities or competitions.

4. Seek federal funds. Pell grants, student loans and other “mentoring” type programs are available. See the next page for a sidebar on FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to read more information on federal funding opportunities.

5.

Seek out unique scholarship opportunities. Search for different scholarship sources based on ethnic heritage, religious affiliations or specific interests.

6. Work ahead. Encourage your child to take advanced placement (AP) courses offered by your high school. These courses provide college credit through the AP exam, resulting in fewer classes he needs to take once he gets to college.

7.

Use available resources. Make use of the high school guidance office and do the work yourself at the local library or bookstore.

There are books that show what kinds of resources are available to help offset college costs.

8. Ask for help. Inquire about the various payment plans at your child’s school of choice. You may be able to spread payments over the semester. Some schools may also allow advance payment to avoid a possible raise in tuition costs later.

9.

Think outside the box. Check on co-operative programs that allow your child to attend classes one semester then do careerrelated work the next. He’ll save money, gain experience and become known in a field or the company he may some day want to work for.

10. Start small. Consider letting your child attend a local junior college first. The tuition is less expensive; he can live at home, commute and take some basic courses that are required at most colleges. Just be sure to check on which credits can be transferred to another school.

These leads should get you and your child started on the path to financial stability for college, under any circumstance.

Take care to do the homework, understand all the criteria that’s presented, fill out appropriate forms and follow the directions carefully. You have options and college can be affordable no matter what surprises pop up on the horizon.

Helen Colella is a freelance writer whose work includes educational books and materials, articles and anthologies. She also operates a writing service business for independent publishers (underthecuckooclock.org).

Investigate in your community. Local service organizations such as Kiwanis, Lions Club, Rotary and AAUW (American

34

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

© Dana Bartekoske Heinemann | Dreamstime.com

Understanding the FAFSA Process Tips about attending college in Oklahoma

In Oklahoma, the cost of attending college tends to run less than the national average.

A year at an Oklahoma research university runs about $15,000 per year, including books, fees, room and board, and other related costs for a full-time student, compared to less than $10,000 at the regional universities and about $7,700 at a community college. (More information on college costs in Oklahoma is available at okcollegestart.org.)

Oklahoma students have one additional option called Oklahoma’s Promise. Available only to eighth-, ninth- and 10th-grade students (homeschooled students must be 13-15 years old), Oklahoma’s Promise covers the cost of tuition for students whose family income is $50,000 or less at the time they apply for the program and less than $100,000 at the time the student enters college. (More information on Oklahoma’s Promise is available at okhighered.org/ okpromise).

Information excerpted from the article “How to Pay for College” by MetroFamily’s financial writer and professor of ecomonics, Dr. Sue Lynn Sasser. The full text of the article may be found at metrofamilymagazine.com/how-topay-for-college

If your child is about to enter college, you may have heard about FAFSA: the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Since many grants, scholarships and low-cost student loans are awarded based on the information provided on the FAFSA, completing this form is a must if your student is seeking financial aid to help pay for college. Even if you think your family won’t qualify, it’s still important to complete the FAFSA because it may help to find schoolspecific aid.

Not sure where to start? Go to FAFSA.gov, the official FAFSA website. Completing and submitting your application is always free, so be cautious of other “look-a-like” sites that require you to pay to complete the process.

Some financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s best to complete the FAFSA as soon as possible after the first of the year.

The earlier your family completes the application, the better your chances are for receiving financial aid. You’ll need information from last year’s tax return to complete the form. You can submit the FAFSA using estimated income and tax information, but the form must be updated if any information differs from what you’ve estimated.

The U.S. Department of Education estimates that the form will take less than an hour to complete if all necessary paperwork is in-hand when the application is started. For a list of documentation that may be needed, visit ucango2.org/fafsa.

Completing your application online at FAFSA.gov is safe and secure, and much easier and faster than the paper application. In addition, if you start your application but can’t finish right away, your application will be stored online up to 45 days.

If you have questions, talk with your local financial aid office or, when completing the FAFSA online, view the ‘Help and Hints’ box on the right-hand side of the screen. Also, visit ucango2. org/fafsa for additional resources, including some frequently asked questions about the financial aid process.

Contributed by Lacy Myers, from the Guaranteed Student Loan Authority.

January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

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The 2011 Martin Luther King Holiday Parade will be held on January 17, celebrating the theme of “Challenges Beyond the Dream.”

The parade begins at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral, located at 127 NW 7th St and is inclusive of all races, creed, nationalities and religions. In addition to the parade, there will be the traditional Silent March beginning at 9:00am at the Freedom Center (2609 N Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., OKC) and ending at the Oklahoma Historical Society with the annual Bell Ringing Ceremony.

For details, call 405-410-7740 or 405-530-2934.

The On the Loose exhibit at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art showcases the diversity and creativity of Susan Contreras, the Jerome M. & Wanda Otey Westheimer Distinguished Visiting Artist Chair at the University of Oklahoma. The exhibit looks at how she gets her inspiration from the animal kingdom and keeps her sense of humor in realizing beautiful and colorful works of art. Her sensitivity speaks to adults and children while establishing a nice dialogue with art lovers of all ages. A guest lecture by Contreras will accompany this exhibition’s opening reception on January 28 at 6:00pm. The exhibition is on display through February 20. For more information, visit ou.edu/fjjma.

Photo credit: Artist Susan Contreras in her Santa Fe studio.Photo by Robert Walch.

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

Riverdance, the thunderous celebration of Irish music, song and dance that has tapped its way onto the world stage thrilling millions, will play five performances at the Rose State Performing Arts Theatre in Midwest City, January 21-23. An innovative blend of dance, music and song, Riverdance draws on the combined talents of the cast of international performers to propel Irish dancing and music to the present day while capturing the imagination of audiences across all ages and cultures. The phenomenon of Riverdance draws on Irish traditions and combines the richness of the music with the magic and sensuality of the dance.

Performances will be held on Friday, 8:00pm; Saturday, 2:00pm & 8:00pm; Sunday, 2:00pm & 7:00pm.

Tickets begin at $37.50 and can be purchased by calling 800-364-7111, in person at the Civic Center Music Hall, at Buy for Less stores or online at myticketoffice.com. For more information, visit riverdance.com.

The Harlem Globetrotters’s 2011 “4 Times the Fun” North American

Tour comes to the Oklahoma City Arena on Saturday, January 23, 2:00pm. The Globetrotters, who have contributed more innovations to the game of basketball than any other team in history, will showcase their new 4-point shot as they take on the Washington Generals. The 4-point shot is expected to further open up the playing floor for the “A PHENOMENON OF HISTORIC Globetrotters and the Generals, and hopes toPROPORTIONS!” generate even more high-scoring action and -Washington Post competitive play. The Globetrotters continue a world famous tradition of ball handling wizardry, basketball artistry and one-of-a-kind family entertainment that continues to thrill fans of all ages. Tickets, starting at $19, are on sale atharlemglobetrotters.com, the Oklahoma City Arena box office, or by phone at 800-745-3000. For more information, visit harlemglobetrotters.com.

www.riverdance.com

Bravo Dr. Seuss! presented on Sunday, January 16 by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic at the Civic Center Music Hall is part of the orchestra’s Discovery Family Series. The concert will include a loud song, a soft song, a big song, a small song in a tribute to everyone’s favorite children’s author, Theodore Geisel. With musical versions of “Green Eggs & Ham” and “Gertrude McFuzz,” this afternoon of joy will delight everyone from the Cat in the Hat to the Lorax. Tickets are $9, available at the Philharmonic’s box office (428 W California), at the Civic Center Box Office, or at okcphilharmonic.org.

In an additional celebration of the magical world of Dr. Seuss, the Metropolitan Library System and the Philharmonic have planned a series of stories, music, and fun for children of all ages. The Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast will be held on Saturday, January 15 at 10:00am at the Downtown Library. There is no cost to attend, but reservations are required for admission (limit four per famly; call 405-TICKETS). Dr. Seuss Storytimes and Musical Storytimes will be held at various Metropolitan Library location in January. Visit okcphilharmonic.com for more information.

January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

37

Quick Reference Weekly Events American Banjo Museum 9 E Sheridan Ave, OKC 604-2793, banjomuseum.org City Arts Center Fair Park, 3000 Pershing Blvd, OKC 951-0000, cityartscenter.org Fine Arts Institute of Edmond 27 E Edwards, Edmond 340-4481, edmondfinearts.com Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art 555 Elm Ave, Norman 325-3272, ou.edu/fjjma Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum 13th & Shartel, OKC 235-4458, oklahomaheritage.com Little River Zoo Hwy 9, Norman 366-7229, littleriverzoo.com Myriad Botanical Gardens Closed for renovations; opening in 2011.

297-3995, myriadgardens.com National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC 478-2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Oklahoma Aquarium 300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks 918-296-FISH, okaquarium.org OKC Museum of Art 415 Couch Dr, OKC 236-3100, okcmoa.org OKC National Memorial 620 N Harvey, OKC 235-3313, oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org OKC Zoo 2101 NE 50th St, OKC 424-3344, okczoo.com Oklahoma Children’s Theatre 2501 N Blackwelder, OKC 606-7003, oklahomachildrenstheatre.org Oklahoma History Center 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr., OKC 522-5248, oklahomahistorycenter.org Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman 325-4712, snomnh.ou.edu Science Museum Oklahoma 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC 602-6664, sciencemuseumok.org Do you have an event for our calendar?

Send an email to Calendar@MetroFamilyMagazine.com

38

FREE Norman Sooner Mall Outreach Story Time is an interactive story time held outside Sears in Sooner Mall for ages 9 & under. Tuesdays, 10am.

FREE Art Adventures at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, includes activities for children ages 3-5 with adult. Tuesdays, 10:30am.

FREE Admission at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art on Tuesdays. 10am-5pm.

FREE Tuesday Noon Concerts at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art feature 30-minute musical performances by the University of Oklahoma School of Music students & faculty. Tuesdays, 10:30am.

Family Fun Night at JumpZone (SW 104th & Western) every Tuesday & Thursday. 2 adults, 2 children, 1 large pizza, 2 liter pop for $25, 4:30-8pm. For open play hours call 200-1691, JumpZoneParty.com.

Toddler Time at the Mustang Recreation Center at Town Center (1501 N Mustang Rd) held every Tuesday & Thursday & allows toddlers & young children to run, climb, & play on an indoor playground. Parent or guardian must remain with child. FREE with membership, or $2 per child. 9am-noon. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library, 6-8pm. For all ages. Held every Wednesday. 231-8650.

FREE Thursday Noon Tunes at the Downtown Library, 11:30-1pm.

Fun Friday Preschool Activities at Mustang's Town Center (1201 N. Mustang Rd, Mustang) includes fun activities, crafts, games & snack each week for children ages 6 & under with parent. $3 per child. Every Friday, 10:30am. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

The UCO Jazz Lab features performances each Friday & Saturday at 8pm. $7 adults, $5 age 12 & under.

359-7989, UCOJazzLab.com.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) every Saturday, 10:15am.

842-2900, FullCircleBooks.com.

FREE 1-2-3 Play With Me at the Warr Acres Library for children ages 4 & younger with caregivers. Saturdays, 10:30am.

FREE Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books, Saturdays, 11-11:30am. 340-9202.

FREE Make & Take crafts at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC), Saturdays, 11am-3pm. Ages 3 & up. 858-8778, LakeshoreLearning.com.

History Comes Alive & Classic Cartoon Cruises held each Saturday, departing from Regatta Park or the Exchange Landing on the Oklahoma River. Round trip $12 adults, $8 for ages 6-12, FREE for under age 6.

702-7755, okrivercruises.com.

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art. Saturdays, 1-4pm. Create art inspired by the Museum’s collection, exhibitions, & special occasions. FREE with paid admission.

FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13. The “Gang” works on conservation projects in Martin Park Saturdays from 2-5pm throughout the school year.

755-0676.

Silly Sundays at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise Dr, Edmond) every Sunday, 1-6pm. FREE face painting with paid admission or craft purchase. 340-7584, unpluggits.com.

Sunday Nature Hikes at Martin Park Nature Center.

Guided park tour & nature hike each Sunday 2:30pm.

Reservations & $2 fee required. 755-0676.

Ongoing Events Through Jan 8 39th Annual Holiday Gift Gallery at the Firehouse Art Center (444 South Flood, Norman) offers unique items for holiday gifts handmade by local artists.

Monday-Friday, 9:30am-5:30pm; Saturday, 10am-4pm.

329-4523, normanfirehouse.com.

Through January 10 Flying High & Crash Landing: Bull Wrecks in Rodeo at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum features the photography of Ralph R. Doubleday, Devere Helfrich & Bern Gregory.

FREE Thanking Our Troops—God Bless America Touring Quilt at Northpark Mall (12100 N May) pays tribute to American Heroes through large patriotic quilts. 751-1453, northparkmallokc.com.

Jan 10-March 13 FREE Fan Fiction and Fan Art Contest at Southern Oaks Library allows artists and writers of all ages to submit stories and art using their favorite copyrighted characters. Prizes include gift cards, gift certificates, DVDs and more. Find complete rules and submission guidelines at metrolibrary.org/fan/.

Jan 14-Feb 5 Good ’N’ Plenty performed by Carpenter Square Theatre at the Bricktown Hotel & Convention Center is a comedy that examines our system of government and provides us the opportunity to laugh at it all. $19.

232-6500, carpentersquare.com.

January 15-28 2011 Youth Impressions Art Exhibit at the Fine Arts Institute of Edmond at the Edmond Downtown Community Center (28 E Main) showcases the visual arts creations of students in grades 1-12. 8am-7pm.

340-4481, edmondfinearts.com.

January S M T W T F S

January 18

Jan 28-Feb 20

FREE The First Twelve Months at the Village Library explores how parents and other caregivers can stimulate language and learning skills. Preregister.

On the Loose exhibit at the Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art features the work of visiting artist Susan Contreras. The exhibition highlights the artist's inspiration from the animal kingdom, sense of humor and colorful works of art. FREE opening reception with lecture from artist on 1/28, 6-9pm.

6-7pm.

Jan 20-Feb 13 The Miracle Worker at the Jewel Box Theatre (3700 N Walker) tells the story of Helen Keller and her teacher Annie Sullivan. Adults $15, Students $10. 521-1786, jewelboxtheatre.org.

Jan 20 FREE Ballet Performance by the Metropolitan School of Dance at Capitol Hill Library. 4-5pm.

Jan 21-Mar 12 FREE The Print exhibit at [Artspace] at Untitled explores the various processes of printmaking through the work of several contemporary artists. 1 NE 3rd, OKC. 815-9995, artspaceatuntitled.org.

Jan 21-May 15 Artist-Illustrators from the Permanent Collection at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum highlights the museum’s rich collections of original and published works by western illustrators, including original sketches, paintings, first edition and rare volumes from artists such as Charles M. Russell, Frederic Remington and Maynard Dixon.

Through January 24 Spring Enrollment for Lyric Theatre’s Thelma Gaylord Academy offers classes in tap, ballet, intro to theatre, production, private voice and more for children in elementary through high school. 524-9310, lyrictheatreokc.com.

Jan 26-Feb 5 Always…Patsy Cline presented by Lyric Theatre on the Plaza (1725 NW 16th) is the endearing true story of country music legend Patsy Cline with twenty-seven musical renditions of her unforgettable hits. $40.

Tuesdays-Thursdays, 7:30pm; Fridays, 8pm; Saturdays 2pm & 8pm. 524-9312, lyrictheatreokc.com.

Jan 28-Feb 11 Humpty Dumpty presented by Oklahoma Children's Theatre at the Children’s Center for the Arts at OCU is a whimsical look at how all of Nursery Rhymeville finds and repairs Humpty Dumpty. Performances on Wednesdays, 11am; Fridays, 11am; Saturdays, 2pm; Sundays, 2pm. $7 adults, $5 children.

Through January

26 2 9 16 23 30

27 3 10 17 24 31

28 4 11 18 25 1

29 5 12 19 26 2

30 6 13 20 27 3

31 1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29 4 5

Metropolitan Library System metrolibrary.org

Free Admission at the OKC Zoo every Monday in January for guests of all ages. 9am-5pm.

Through Feb 6 Billy Hassell: Memento at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee) reinvents the American landscape with colorful interpretations of the Southwest. 878-5300, mgmoa.org.

Through February Imagination Station at Science Museum Oklahoma explores the intricate relationship between our eyes & brain’s interpretation of images through hands-on activities and interactive elements. FREE with paid museum admission.

Through March 14 Visions of Reality at the Gaylord Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum features artist Greg Burns favorite landscapes and landmarks and his interpretation of reality. Born with Arthrogryposis, a muscle and joint disease that affects the use of his arms and legs, Burns draws with the pen in his hand and adds watercolor by holding the brush in his teeth

Through April 17 Mediterranean Treasures: Selections from the Classics Collection at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features 100 of the most significant objects from the museum’s classics collection, dating from between the 21st century BCE and the 3rd century CE, displaying the rich artistic and cultural diversity of the ancient Mediterranean region.

Belle Isle.................5501 N Villa...........843-9601 Bethany................3510 N Mueller.........789-8363 Capitol Hill............ 334 SW 26th...........634-6308 Choctaw.................2525 Muzzy...........390-8418 Del City..................4509 SE 15th...........672-1377 Downtown.............300 Park Ave.......... 231-8650 Edmond............... 10 S Boulevard......... 341-9282 Midwest City......... 8143 E Reno........... 732-4828 Ralph Ellison....... 2000 NE 23rd...........424-1437 Southern Oaks....6900 S Walker.........631-4468 The Village........... 10307 N Penn.......... 755-0710 Warr Acres...........5901 NW 63rd...........721-2616 Harrah...............1930 N Church Ave.....454-2001 Jones.......................111 E Main............399-5471 Luther......................310 NE 3rd............ 277-9967 Nicoma Park...... 2240 Overholser........769-9452 Wright Library.... 2101 Exchange.........235-5035

Pioneer Library System pls.lib.ok.us

Blanchard............... 300 N Main............ 485-2275 McLoud....................133 N Main............964-2960 Moore.................... 225 S Howard.......... 793-5100 Newcastle............. 705 NW Tenth.......... 387-5076 Noble........................204 N 5th..............872-5713 Norman.................225 N Webster......... 701-2600 Purcell.................... 919 N Ninth............ 527-5546 Shawnee............101 N Philadelphia......275-6353 Tecumseh............114 N Broadway........598-5955

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Layaway PLans

40 % off sale

$99 Delivery & Installation exp. 01/31/11

Showroom inside Jump!Zone S.W. 104th & Western

www.okcplaysets.com 200-1691

Through May 8 American Indian Printmakers from The Silberman Collection at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is the museum’s first exhibition to focus solely on the printmaking aspect of American Indian fine art.

Through May 15 FREE Stare Stare Stereo at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is a student-curated exhibition featuring items from the museum's permanent collection to compare and contrast, appreciate and analyze. 6-9pm.

Through November 13 The Art of the Tool Exhibit at Science Museum Oklahoma combines form with function by examining the tools that creative professionals use to fix, build and maintain the world around us. FREE with paid museum admission.

Through 2011 The Uncanny Adventures of Okie Cartoonists at the Oklahoma History Center explores how Oklahomans have played a major role in the evolution of comic books, comic strips & editorial cartoons.

Adult classes.

Teen classes.

Youth classes.

405-755-4195 24 NW 144 Circle Edmond oksportfencing.com

Advertise with MetroFamily, reach over 75,000 loyal readers and

Get Results!

January 2 • Sunday OKC Barons Hockey vs. Rockford Icehogs at the Cox Convention Center. Tickets $14 & up, 800-7453000 or ticketmaster.com. 3:05pm. okcbarons.com.

Other home games this month: 1/7, 8, 9, 26, 28, 29.

3 • Monday FREE Admission to the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

FREE Dr. Seuss Musical Storytime presented by the OKC Philharmonic and the Metropolitan Library System at the Warr Acres Library is an hour long, string quartet presentation featuring several favorite children’s books, including a few selections from Dr. Seuss. 6pm. Also held 1/5 at the Village Library and 1/6 at the Midwest City Library.

4 • Tuesday FREE Tell Me a Story: Dr. Seuss at the Capitol Hill Library features nursery rhymes, the books of Dr. Seuss, and a drawing for tickets to the Oklahoma City Philharmonic upcoming concert Bravo Dr. Seuss. 10am.

Also held 1/4 at the Choctaw Library. 1/11 at the Village Library and 1/13 at the Downtown Library.

Call Today!

405.340.1404 40

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

Common Challenges with Toddlers at the Edmond Public Library discusses temper tantrums, biting and sharing, as well as ways to minimize the frustration associated with these challenges. Preregister.

3:30-5pm.

FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store. Build a new model every month.

Held the first Tuesday of the month, 5pm. Quantities are limited. For ages 6-14. 840-9993, Stores.Lego.com

4-9 Burn the House presented by Celebrity Attractions at the Civic Center Music Hall is an electrifying Latin and Ballroom dance spectacular. Recommended for ages 12 & up. Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday 2pm & 8pm; Sunday 2pm & 7pm. Tickets $16 & up, available by calling 800-869-1451, at participating Buy for Less Locations, or myticketoffice.com. celebrityattractions.com

5 • Wednesday Musical Stories at the Village Library is an hour long, string quartet presentation by members of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic featuring several favorite children’s books. 6-7pm. Also held 1/6 at the Midwest City Library.

6 • Thursday Create a One Season Birdhouse at the Moore Public Library allows teens to make a birdhouse for their backyard. Supplies included. Preregister. 6-7pm.

7-8 Museums on Us: Bank of America Free Weekend at the OKC Museum of Art & the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum provides FREE admission for Bank of America credit/debit card holders. museums.bankofamerica.com.

FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo District features over 60 artists in 17 galleries. Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, noon-5pm. 525-2688, thepaseo.com.

Kicker Monster Trucks at the Lazy E Arena features crushing, smashing, racing, and adrenaline-rushin' monster truck action. 282-RIDE, lazye.com

8 • Saturday FREE Mr. Stinky Feet concert at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen) 10:30am. 418-8881, uptownkidsstyle.com.

Pre-Inaugural Fun for Families presented by Governor-Elect Mary Fallin at Science Museum Oklahoma includes lunch, music and crafts. Tickets required. 11am-1pm. maryfallininaugural.org.

FREE Saturdays for Kids at the National Cowboy

& Western Heritage Museum has boys and girls making traditional hand-crafted toy yarn dolls.

Includes museum admission. Preregister, 478-2250.

10am-noon.

Greater Oklahoma Bluegrass Music Society Bluegrass Concert/Jam features three professional bluegrass bands in a family-oriented show at the Oklahoma Country-Western Museum & Hall of Fame (3925 SE 29th, Del City) $6. Children 12 & under FREE. 6:30-9:30pm. 677-7515, gobms.org.

OKC Thunder vs. Memphis Grizzlies at the OKC Arena, 8pm. Tickets, 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster. com. nba.com/thunder. Other home games this month: 1/13, 22, 28, 30.

8-10 Arcadia Lake Eagle Watch begins at the Lake Park Office (9000 E 2nd St) with information on eagle viewing locations and display about eagles and other birds in the arena. Binoculars suggested. $3 per vehicle. 7:30am-4:30pm. 216-7470.

9 • Sunday FREE Second Sunday Concert at the Downtown Library features pianist Marcin Parys playing many popular favorites. 2-3pm.

10 • Monday FREE Inaugural Ceremonies at the Oklahoma State Capitol (2300 N Lincoln) will swear in the state’s highest ranking elected officials, including Governorelect Mary Fallin, on the south steps of the State Capitol. Individuals wishing to attend should plan to arrive at least an hour early. Reception following. Noon. maryfallininaugural.org.

11 • Tuesday Storytime Science at Science Museum Oklahoma has the museum's performer puppeteer piloting kids through the the silliest science stories around.

10:30am and 2:30pm. FREE with paid museum admission.

12 • Wednesday FREE Book Discussion for Teens at the Newcastle Public Library discusses "A Great and Terrible Beauty"

by Libba Bray and encourages lively conversation by teens ages 13 & up. 4-5:30pm.

FREE Job Search Workshop at Yukon's Mabel C. Fry Public Library offers a free assessment and career recommendations and tips for adults and teen ages 16 and over. 3:30-5pm. 354-8232.

13 • Thursday Intuitive Eating: The Non-Diet Approach to Losing Weight and Keeping It Off at the Oklahoma County OSU Cooperative Extension Service helps participants earn more about personal eating styles, how to cope with emotions without using food, and learning portion control. $5. Preregister. 1-3pm. 713-1125.

13-16 The Merchant of Venice presented by Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park at the Kirkpatrck Theatre on the OCU campus $12. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday 2:30pm. 208-5227, oklahomashakespeare. com.

14 • Friday FREE Norman’s 2nd Friday Circuit of Art is a monthly celebration of the arts connecting the downtown arts district with galleries, performance halls, & Campus Corner. Trolley service between venues available at minimal cost. 6-10pm. 360-1162, 2ndfridaynorman.com.

FREE Family Fun Night at the Firehouse Art Center (444 S Flood, Norman) allows children of all ages to sculpt animals in the ceramics studio to add to the gallery's “animal community,” and include a pottery demonstration. 6-9pm. 329-4523, normanfirehouse. com.

Bright Night of Physics at Science Museum Oklahoma allows kids ages 6-16 to explore science in an after-hours experience. Friday, 6pm-Saturday, 8:30am. $45, members receive $10 discount.

FREE LIVE on the Plaza held in the Plaza District (NW 16th between Classen & Penn) on the second Friday of each month includes artwalk, local artists, live music & shopping. 7-11pm. plazadistrict.wordpress. com.

15 • Saturday FREE Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast presented by the Metropolitan Library System and the OKC Philharmonic at the Downtown Library celebrates the magical world of Dr. Seuss with breakfast and storytime with conductor Matt Troy. Preregister to get free tickets by calling 405-TICKETS. 10am.

From the Pens of Great Pianists presented by the OKC Philharmonic features pianist Horacio Gutierrez performing masterpieces by Brahms, Chopin and Rachmaninoff. $12 & up. 8pm. 232-7575, okcphilharmonic.org.

Year-Round Classess

Enroll N OW!

• All Ages & All Stages • Professional Faculty • Friendly Atmosphere

FINE ARTS INSTITUTE OF EDMOND 27 E. Edwards • 340-4481 www.edmondfinearts.com

Budding Ballerina Classes!

Session 1 $45 February 1 - March 11 2 ½ - 4 year olds Thursdays 4:00 - 4:30 Session 2 $45 March 21 - April 29 2 ½ - 4 year olds ENROLLM Thursdays 4:00 - 4:30 ENT 3 - 6 year olds Tuesdays 6:45 - 7:15

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Velocity Dance Center

721-8807 • velocitydancecenterokc.com

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January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

41

ERNA KROUCH

PRESCHOOL

Continually operating since 1955

Music, Art, Science, Spanish, Dramatic Play & Motor Development

Fall Enrollment Begins February 27th

Space Available for Spring in the 2 ½ , young 3's and young pre-K

Limited space in most age groups.

Please call 848-5926 4901 N. Pennsylvania

Guitar for Kids

School of Rock

Electric, Acoustic and Classical Guitar Studies Designed for Beginning Guitarists Ages 6 to Adult

Now Offering Daytime Homeschool Classes Located in Edmond at the corner of N. Blvd and E. Campbell St.

340-8294

www.guitarforcoolkids.com coolkids.com

Karen’s Kids Studio of Dance

FREE TRIAL CLASS Tap ✦ Jazz ✦ Ballet ✦ Modern HipHop ✦ Lyrical ✦ Pom Tec Class

Classes for all ages.

Enrolling Now!

Classes fill up quickly, call today to reserve a spot for your child!

16 • Sunday

20 • Thursday

Bravo Dr. Seuss! presented by the OKC Philharmoic pays tribute to everyone's favorite children's author, Theodore Geisel with musical versions of "Green Eggs & Ham" and "Gertrude McFuzz," $9. 2pm. 232-7575, okcphilharmonic.org.

FREE Family Game Night at Mustang’s Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd) held the third Thursday monthly & offers a featured game each month, or bring your own.

Children 10 & under must be accompanied by adult.

6:30-8:30pm. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

Winter Wind Concert Series presented by The Performing Arts Studio (200 S Jones, Norman) presents the slide guitar music of Watermelon Slim. $20. 7pm. 307-9320, thepas.org.

FREE Looking Back: Near the End of a Career in Archaeology lecture at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features curator of archaeology Don Wyckoff as he looks back on his 50-year career in archaeology and discusses changes in archaeology over the past five decades and what Wyckoff sees for the future of the discipline. 7pm.

17 • Monday 2011 Martin Luther King Holiday Celebration includes a traditional silent march at 9am at the Freedom Center at 2609 N Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., OKC, followed by the annual bell ringing ceremony at the Oklahoma Historical Society. The 2011 MLK parade begins at 2pm at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral (127 NW 7th) and celebrates all races, creed, nationalities and religions under the theme of “Challenges Beyond The Dream.” 410-7740.

Scout Day at the Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks honors all youth organizations such as Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Camp Fire, 4-H, FFA, etc. Members in uniform or with membership card and one accompanying adult admitted at discounted rate, $7 youth, $10 adult.

10am-6pm.

18• Tuesday The Science of SMO: Galleries at Science Museum Oklahoma explores the wonder of art and science together in Satellite Galleries. FREE with paid museum admission.

Tiny Tuesdays at the OKC Museum of Art is a come-&-go, “drop-in” style art making activity geared towards children, ages 2-5, with a parent or caregiver that encourages families to create together, to explore & experiment with a variety of art media, & to enhance their understanding of art. FREE with paid admission.

10am-noon.

18-20 The Color Purple presented by Celebrity Attractions at the Civic Center Music Hall is a soul-stirring musical based on the classic Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.

Recommended for ages 10 & up. celebrityattractions. com.

19• Wednesday Character Cartooning: Cars at the Capitol Hill Library teaches kids in grade 4 & up how to draw cartoon cars and other things. 4-6pm.

karenkidsrock@sbcglobal.net www.karenskidsstudioofdance.com

732-7722

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www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

21 • Friday Educator Preview at Science Museum Oklahoma is a “teachers only” evening inside the museum.

Preregistration required. 4-9:30pm.

Movie Night at the Museum at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History screens The Secret of Kells in the museum’s Great Hall. $5 adults, $3 ages 6-17, children 5 & under FREE, $1 discount for members. Galleries open 5:30-7pm. Movie at 7pm.

21-23 Riverdance at the Rose State Performing Arts Theatre (I-40 & Hudiburg Dr) is the original Irish dancing phenomenon. Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm; Sunday, 2pm & 7pm. Tickets $37.50 & up. riverdance. com.

OKC Home & Garden Show at State Fair Park features over 500 exhibits. Friday, noon-9pm; Saturday 10am-9pm; Sunday 10am-6pm. $11 Children under 12 FREE. $3 discount online. 800-466-7469, oklahomacityhomeshow.com.

22 • Saturday FREE Edmond Author’s Book Fair at the Edmond Historical Society and Museum (413 S Boulevard) features over 30 local authors promoting and selling their books, refreshments and family-friendly activities.

1-4pm. 340-0078.

FREE Cloth Diaper Basics Class at the Green Bambino (5113 N. Shartel) helps parents learn if resuable cloth diapers are right for their family No purchase necessary. Class size is limited, pre-register.

9am. 848-2330, green-bambino.com. Also held on 1/29.

FREE Learn a New Craft: Knitting, Watercolor Cards, or Crochet at Yukon's Mabel C. Fry Public Library allows beginners to learn the basics of the craft.

The class is for teens and adults. 10:30am-12:30pm.

354-8232.

Introducing the NEW Coliseum Sports Academy "All it takes is all you've got"

23 • Sunday

28-29

Harlem Globetrotters vs the Washington Generals at OKC Arena as part of the team’s 2011 “4 Times the Fun” North American tour. $19 and up, available at the OKC Arena box office or 800-745-3000. 2pm. harlemglobetrotters.com.

Cherryholmes presented by the OKC Philharmonic features hard-driving bluegrass instrumental virtuosity and explosive vocal harmonies in original songs written by the Cherryholmes family. $12 & up. 8pm.

232-7575, okcphilharmonic.org.

24 • Monday

Homeschool Mom's Winter Summit at Crossings Community Church (14600 N Portland). $79 (by 1/14), $89 (after 1/14) or $99 (at the door.) 819-5551, homeschoolwintersummit.com. (See page 12.)

Monday Study Club for mothers of students in grades 6 & up features a presentation by Denise Flis of Oklahoma City University about tips to navigate college financial aid offices. 3rd Floor of 50 Penn Place. $25 annual dues, $12.50 per meeting for lunch.

11:30am. mallerynagle@swbell.net.

25 • Tuesday Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake performed by the Russian National Ballet Theater at Edmond's Armstrong Auditorium (14400-B S Bryant). Tickets, $28 & up.

7:30pm. 285-1039, armstrongauditorium.org

28-30 Disney's Aladdin Jr. at the Sooner Theatre (101 E Main, Norman) includes all the favorite characters in a show filled with magic, mayhem, and flying carpet rides. $10 adults; $5 children. Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 2pm & 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. 321-9600, soonertheatre. org.

26 • Wednesday

American Bicycle Association BMX Sooner Nationals at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie is the most prestigious series in the sport of BMX racing.

282-RIDE, lazye.com,

The Science of SMO: Exhibits at Science Museum Oklahoma demonstrates the “how-to” of putting together exhibits at the museum. FREE with paid museum admission.

29th Annual Oklahoma Hunting and Tackle Show has the best fishing and hunting products, boats, RV’s and outdoor products Kids Night on Friday includes kid’s fishing pond & casting contest. gctackleshow.org.

27-30

29 • Saturday

The 56th Annual 2011 Oklahoma City Winter Boat Show, State Fair Park. Boats, fishing information, Kid's Fish Catfish Tank and more. Thursday, 4-9pm; Friday, noon-9pm; Saturday, 10am-9pm; Sunday, noon to 5pm.

Adults $7; children under 12 are FREE. okcboats.com

27 • Thursday FREE Ghost Bird movie screening at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History shows the feature length documentary about an extinct giant woodpecker, a small town in Arkansas hoping to reverse its misfortunes, and the tireless odyssey of the bird-watchers and scientists. Discussion follows. 7pm.

Liverpool Legends in Concert at the Rose State Performing Arts Theatre (I-40 & Hudiburg Drive) perform songs spanning the entire career of The Beatles. 7:30pm. $21 & up, myticketoffice.com.

28 • Friday Café City Arts is an annual celebration and art sale featuring national, regional and emerging artists benefitting the year-round visual arts exhibits at City Arts Center. Tickets required.

FREE Recipe and Cookbook Swap at the Purcell Public Library invites adults to trade cookbooks and recipes and ways to organize recipes you love.

11am-1pm.

FREE Beyond Genealogy: Writing Family Stories at Yukon's Mabel C. Fry Public Library invites participants to bring along a family story, artifact, letter, photograph or recipe to share. 10am-noon. 354-8232.

Greater Oklahoma Bluegress Music Society 5th Annual Bluegress Gospel Concert/Jam at the Oklahoma Country-Western Museum & Hall of Fame (3925 SE 29, Del City) features three professional bluegrass bands. $6, FREE for chlidren 12 and under.

6:30-9:30pm. 677-7515, gobms.org

30 • Sunday FREE Family Day at the Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art allows families to explore art in the museum's permanent collection and temporary exhibitions, and enjoy hands-on art activities. 1-4pm.

Winter Wind Concert Series presented by The Performing Arts Studio (200 S Jones, Norman) presents the classical, jazz, blues and funk music of Radoslav Lorkovic. $15. 7pm. 307-9320, thepas.org.

Volleyball

skills training for ages 7-18 Private, small group lessons and clinics Special programs for homeschoolers

www.coliseumsportsacademy.com coliseumsportsacademy@gmail.com Strength • Precision Quality • Respect

Explore our Children’s Learning Center and check out our upcoming

Spring Break Spectacular!

Free Admission

Tues.-Fri. 10-5pm • Sat. 1-4pm 431 S. Boulevard, Edmond

Follow us

www.edmondhistory.org

Paint Your

Sweetheart

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Great Private Party Room.

Punky Pottery Teen Parties Birthday Parties

Bridal Parties Walk-in Anytime

paintnstation.com Paint your own pottery studio 842-7770

January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

43

February 2 • Wednesday

4 • Friday

OKC Thunder vs. New Orleans Hornets at the OKC Arena, 7pm. Tickets, 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster. com. nba.com/thunder. Other home games this month: 2/8, 15, 22, 27.

Wags to Riches at the Hamilton Event Center (41 NW 144th Circle, OKC) benefits Norman’s Second Chance Animal Sanctuary with a doggie fashion show with fashions from Project Runway winner Jonathan Kayne, and silent and live auction. $40/person, $60/couple.

6-9pm. 321-1915, secondchancenorman.org.

3 • Thursday

5 • Saturday

OKC Barons Hockey vs. Peoria Rivermen at the Cox Convention Center. Tickets $14 & up, 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com. 7:05pm. okcbarons.com. Other home games this month: 2/4, 9, 23, 25, 26.

FREE Saturdays for Kids at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum features Rhythmically Speaking presenting the story of Bass Reeves, one of

A Blast!

Daycare Programs Birthday Parties School Programs

Tons of Affordable FUN! www.madscience.org/okc 405-285-9643

Birthday packages starting at $150.

Parties for children ages 5 to 12. For more information or to book your very own Dino Party, call or email us at

44

www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com | January 2011

7 • Monday FREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History in Norman on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm.

11-13

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the first black lawmen of the West and most respected lawman working in Indian Territory. 10:15 & 11:15am.

An Affair of the Heart at State Fair Park features arts, crafts, antiques, collectibles and more. Friday-Saturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday 11am-5pm. $6. 632-2652, aaoth.com.

You don't have to be an artist to create a masterpiece!

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First State-of-art Outdoor Laser Tag in this area!

10 Field Courses Birthday Parties Special Events Day Care & Church Group Laser Tag Rates

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www.DodgeCityPaintball.com

January 2011 | www.MetroFamilyMagazine.com

45

Learning is Fun! Here are fun photos of our reader's children learning and exploring at great places in the metro area. See the complete gallery at metrofamilymagazine.com/ december-2010-photos.

learning about animals Francesca M., age 4, oma City Zoo Ok hands-on at the lah

Trace C., age 2, of Bethany digging for dinosaur bones at Jasmine Moran Childrens Museum in Seminole.

Would you like to see your kids in our magazine or photo galleries? In honor of Valentine's Day, submit photos of your child sharing the love—your best hugs, kisses, and sweet family, sibling or best friend moments. Deadline for photo submission is Wednesday, January 19. We’ll put them all online and select a few to print in our February issue.

Photo submission guidelines and a form to submit your photos may be found at metrofamilymagazine.com/ mfm-photo-galleries.

mond and Ethan O., Emma L., age 5, of Ed Jasmine Moran the at age 5, of Edmond Seminole.

Children's Museum in

Ophelia B., age 8, of Ok lahoma Science Museum Oklah City at oma.

Lauren L., age 3, of Edmond reading with her grandfather.

By the deadline of January 20, submit a photo of your family supporting the Barons to be eligible for consideration as the February MetroFamily Fan of the Game. The winner will receive a four-pack of tickets to an upcoming game and a choice of other great perks such as a group picture on the ice after the game. PLUS your family's winning photo will be included on our photo page in February. Find out more, get your "game on" and enter your photo at metrofamilymagazine.com/ baronsfamily-fan-photo-contest.

Austin B., age 4, and Thomas B., age 7, of Newalla watching the Barons beat the Toronta Marlies in an overtime shootout in November.

46

Good luck and Go Barons!

Emely J., age 9, of Tinker AFB at Science Museum Oklahoma.

New Year, New Look & New Services

for your MetroFamily Join us as we introduce NEW services that will provide more parenting tips, help your family have more fun and save more money in 2011.

• Our NEW website will include new blogs, more contests and coupons AND a directory to local resources that you will LOVE (Launching by Feb. 1).

• Mother Lode (metrofamilymagazine.com/mother-lode) provides deep discounts on the local products, services, attractions and events that you know and love, helping you stretch your budget and make the most of your time and money .

• Our popular Exploring Oklahoma with Children program that provides families with the best travel ideas in the state will be expanding this year. Stay tuned for the exciting developments to be announced this spring.

• Our community of local parents, mostly moms, is growing! Join our “family" by signing up for our popular weekly E-Update that provides the BEST events for the weekend, and by following us on Twitter (twitter.com/metrofamily) and “liking” us on Facebook (facebook.com/metrofamily).

New Address: 725 NW 11th, Suite 204 • Oklahoma City, OK 73103

NEW Phone: 405-601-2081 • metrofamilymagazine.com • info@metrofamilymagazine.com

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